13 simple ways to lower your electric bill

FORGOING THE FAMILY road trip will spare you from getting dinged by sky-high gas prices this summer, but staying at home in the air-conditioned comfort of your living room may not result in the cost savings you expected.
That's because the same commodity cravings that are driving up oil prices have also jacked up the costs of coal and natural gas — prime fuels needed to generate electricity. Increased demand from China and India, coupled with weather-driven supply setbacks, have nearly doubled market prices for both coal and natural gas this year. The two, along with oil, have become a triple-threat for the electric industry. Where electricity producers once may have switched from one fuel to another to cut costs, now every option is pricey.
As a result, electricity prices are expected to increase 2.7% this year, according to the Energy Information Administration's Short-Term Energy and Summer Fuels Outlook. Those estimates, however, could easily prove to be conservative. Regions that rely on coal, natural gas or petroleum to generate electricity — by EIA estimates, about 70% of power plants in the United States — could see more substantial price increases, says Steve Rosenstock, manager of energy solutions for the Edison Electric Institute, an industry group.
"The other big unknown is the weather," adds Neil Gamson, an economist with the agency. EIA's estimates are based on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's expectations that it will be a mild summer, with fewer scorching days than last year. But an unexpected heat wave — and a subsequent spike in demand for electricity — could quickly incite price increases. So could worse-than-expected summer hurricanes, by putting a temporary halt to natural gas production.

Heat wave or no, here are some simple strategies to keep your summer energy bills from overheating.
Fine-Tune Your Equipment

Arrange an HVAC inspection.

Hire a certified technician to check that your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system is operating at peak efficiency. A worn-out filter or unsealed duct could reduce the unit's energy efficiency by as much as 20%. Make an appointment before the hot weather hits, urges Ronnie Kweller, a spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy. An inspection will usually set you back $50 to $100, but that could easily be offset by the energy savings you'll reap over time. Plus, if you schedule your appointment before contractors are swamped with repair requests, you could possibly snag a 10% early bird discount.
Shop for size.

If you're in the market for a new room air conditioner, use Energy Star guidelines to assess how powerful a unit you need. A too-powerful unit will cost more in both initial purchase price and ongoing energy bills, says Kweller.
Keep it clean.

Whether you have central air or an individual window or wall unit, be sure to clean the air filters every month. Dirt and dust hinder air flow, reducing efficiency.
Program your thermostat.

Programming your thermostat to give your air conditioner a break for the eight hours you're at work — even by just a degree or two — could cut your cooling bill by up to 10%, says Jennifer Thorne Amann, a senior associate at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
Seek out incentives on appliances.

Energy Star-certified products are not only guaranteed to be more efficient than their conventional counterparts, but they can also cost less. Many utility companies and local governments offer rebates on such purchases. Austin Energy in Texas, for example, offers $50 back on window air conditioners with an energy-efficiency ratio of at least 10.7. That's a 22% discount on a $230 Kenmore 7,800 BTU single room air conditioner.
Hunt Down Heat Sources

Seal up your home.

Pricey cooled air can leak through cracks along window and door frames. Invest in some caulk and weather-stripping to plug up these drafts as you notice them. You could spend as little as $10 on the project, which would more than pay for itself over the course of the summer, says Kweller.
Change your light bulbs.

If you haven't swapped your incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescents yet, get to it, says Amann. Not only do CFLs use 75% less energy than conventional bulbs, but they also generate 70% less heat.
Close your blinds.

It's a simple concept: Rooms get hotter without shades or curtains to block the sunlight.
Use fans.

A breeze makes the room feel a few degrees cooler. Just be sure to turn it off when you leave. "Fans cool people, not rooms," says Kweller.
Unplug.

Gadgets like your cellphone charger and microwave suck energy — and generate heat — as long as they're attached to a power source, says Amann. Plug them into a power strip that can be turned off when not in use.
Assess Utility Suppliers

Check alternate suppliers.

If you live in a state where the electric industry is deregulated, shop around for a different energy provider, says Rosenstock. Savings can be as substantial as 20% a month, and many of these companies use renewable energy so they are much less dependent on the whims of oil, coal and natural gas prices. Most will also fix billing rates for a year or more — a definite bonus as energy prices creep up. Visit your state's Public Service Commission to determine your options. Just be aware that most providers require you to commit to at least a year and charge a hefty fee if you duck out early, advises Rosenstock.
Consider time-of-use plans.

A growing number of electric companies are offering so-called time-of-use plans, which offer lower rates for energy consumption during off-peak hours (usually from midevening to early morning). The catch? You'll often pay more for peak-hours use, so consider your schedule before signing up. Arizona-based SRP, for example, regularly charges 9.65 cents per kilowatt hour. On the time-of-use plan, it charges 18.13 cents for on-peak hours (1 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and 5.18 cents during the rest of the day.
Fix your bill.

Ask your utility about fixed-bill plans, which charge the same amount every month for a set period, regardless of your electricity use. You'll pay a premium rate per kilowatt hour to hedge against price increases and seasonal spikes, so make sure to crunch the numbers against your total 2007 energy bills to see if you'll really save, advises Kweller. Also, keep in mind that these plans periodically reconcile, which can leave you with a big bill if you've used more than the supplier anticipated.

Source: www.smartmoney.com

all about reaching an orgasm

Unhappy with your sex life? Don't feel dejected. It's time to add some zing to your sex romps, courtesy our seven point guide to the Big O.
1. Be comfortable

While experimentation is all important, do not try positions that you are physically uncomfortable in. What works for you, might not work for someone else, so remember the key to good sex is finding a hot spot that works for you and your partner. Experiment with positions that give you more leverage to hit the right spots. And feel maximum pleasure. Communicate what position you feel best in to your better half as that will give you better access to their moan zones.
2. Feel the vibrations

A lot of us may not believe this, but using a vibrator during sex can lend immense pleasure to both partners and if time is of the essence, there's nothing more efficient than this sex machine. Just ensure you're giving your man extra TLC, so that he doesn't feel left out or that he's not needed in the act.
3. Fantasy unlimited

Using your imagination during the act goes a long way if you're not really feeling all that excited. Fantasies are very powerful and act as a potent sexual stimulus, so use it to enhance the physical sensations that are happening and soon you'll be in seventh heaven.
4. Curb distractions

While having sex, cut out all distractions - be it keeping your eye on an ongoing football match or on the clock or checking your phone or laptop for mails and messages. Be committed to the act of sex like it's a job you are on because getting distracted will only deter your performance.
5. Don't think of the end result

Sometimes, the harder you try, the harder it becomes to feel pleasure. If all you are focussed on is getting an orgasm, chances are that it will be more difficult to attain. Don't make your climax the sole objective. Enjoy the sensations, the smell, the foreplay, the caressing and the words. As someone said - 'it's a journey, not a destination.'
6. Indulge in porn

Magazines, DVDs, internet porn; there's no harm using external stimulation to get a sexual high. Watching other people having sex is an incredible turn on and can speed your sex session well. Just remove the porn DVD from your disc drive before that an important presentation at work or if you have kids at home to avoid embarrassment.
7. Talk the talk

Gone are the days when sex was supposed to be a silent process. Talk freely to your beau about what turns you on, your hot spots and the ways in which you feel pleasured the most and it's likely that you will discover a new meaning to a routine sex ritual. Also, during sex don't be afraid to moan aloud or call aloud your lover's name. It may just act as an added turn on!
Source: www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com

eye care - tips to rejuvenate your eyes

Eye care- Tips to rejuvenate your eyes

 

Be it pollution, stress or examination tension, you have enough reason to be worried about your appearance. After all you don't want to be called 'Queen of dark circles' or Princess puffy eyes'. Fortunately, there are simple remedies to treat your eyes. You don't need to visit a cosmotologist or even a saloon. You can sit at home relax in your easy chair and take care of your eyes.

"The common advice given is to cool and relax one's eyes with slices of cucumber placed over eyelids".

A few drops of coconut oil massaged around the eyes helps get rid of dark spots.

When one does not have time for face packs, using an under eye concealer is the best option.

A solution of Glycerine and lemon juice applied around the eyes removes dark circles.

Also, cotton pads soaked in cold milk and placed around the eyes cools the eyes.

A mixture of safforn and honey applied around the eyes can do good.

It is believed washing ones face every night with rosewater refreshes the eye.

In order to remove puffiness from the eyelids and also for long eyelashes a thin coat of castor oil can be applied before going to bed.

Baggy or puffy eyes can be treated by keeping ice cubes on them.

Most people tend to dose off while reading. However, those who wear contact lenses must ensure that they take them off before sleeping as this could lead to puffy eyes.

Eat Healthy

Green leafy vegetables are a must. Carrot is good for eyes. Ensure that your diet is rich in Vitamins A, B and C.

Drink plenty of water

Your system needs purification.

Use user friendly make up

Make sure you remove your makeup before your retire to bed.

Finally sleep

It is important to get eight hours of sleep. You will feel revitalised and this will reflect in your eyes.

How to Overcome STRESS

STRESS cannot be done away unless the cause itself is removed. Good health and stress free life is all that one craves for. According to the American Dietary Association, the main hazard of stress is not that we need more nutrients, but that anxiety or pressure can cause us to neglect proper dietary habits. Prolonged periods of stress lead to depletion of Vitamin C, B and D. Food changes our brain chemistry in a way that it influences our moods.

The key to our emotion lies in certain chemicals in the blood stream. These are called neuro-transmitters. These are produced from the nutrients in the food. Hence, the need for nutritious and balanced diet is a must to free ourself from the physical and mental diseases and relieve stress. A balanced diet should be defined from the nutritional point of view. As one which contains different types of food in such qualities and proportions; the micro-nutrients like minerals and vitamins and macro nutrients like proteins, fats and carbohydrates is adequately met. And a small provision is made for extra nutrient to withstand short duration of leanness (infections in the body).

Source: www.viewbestads.com

 

browsing tips for better productivity

You probably spend a good amount of your computing time within the confines of a web browser.

But are you making the most of that time?

You’re not if you are relying on the same old browser habits that you developed years ago.

The good news: There are plenty of ways in which you can supercharge your web browsing without resorting to a bunch of tricks that you’ll likely forget.

Read on to learn more.

Discover caret browsing

One of the best-kept secrets of both Internet Explorer (IE) and Firefox is the caret browsing feature. Caret browsing essentially makes web pages more keyboard-friendly – and web surfing a lot more productive, particularly if you spend much time at all selecting and copying text or graphics from a website.

With caret browsing activated, a text cursor appears within any web page, and moving the cursor around and highlighting text and graphics are very similar to performing the same actions in a word processing document. In caret mode, the Tab key moves you from one major section of a web page to another, and the Enter key will activate any link on which the cursor is positioned.

You can activate (and de-activate) caret browsing by simply pressing the F7 key in both IE and Firefox. Google’s Chrome has a version of caret browsing that involves first selecting some text and then using the Shift and arrow keys to select more.

Launch into full screen

Most elements of web browsers – menus, toolbars, status bars, and the like – are useless clutter once you’ve landed on a page that you want to read. To get rid of the clutter, simply tap the F11 key. All of the major browsers will launch into “full screen” mode, showing you just your web page and none of the browser controls you don’t need. Press F11 again to return to the browser’s previous state.

With Internet Explorer, you can still access your menus with in full screen mode. Just use the keyboard shortcuts (Alt-F, Alt-E, and so on), and the menus will hover over the web page.

Outsmart ads

One of the biggest time-zappers while surfing the internet today is waiting for ads to load – or waiting for them to leave you alone so that you can get to the content you need.
You can get rid of most ads altogether in a couple of ways. First, if you’re a Firefox user, head straight for Adblock Plus (http://bit.ly/12oUg). Install this plugin, and in no time bothersome ads will be a distant memory. This plugin can’t zap all ads, but it takes care of most of them. Chrome users also now have a beta version of Adblock plus (http://bit.ly/7EABcN) that they can try.

If you’re using IE, try Ad Muncher (http://bit.ly/3aCI27), which is also compatible with most other browsers.

Use the keyboard

Think about the operations you perform repeatedly in your browser using the mouse. There are probably keyboard shortcuts for most of them that can save you a lot of time.
Do you frequently return to your home page, for example? Hold down the Alt key and tap Home (Alt-Home) Need to find something on a web page? Ctrl-F activates the Find box. Need a new tab? Ctrl-T takes care of it. And how about switching among open tabs? Ctrl—Tab does the trick. These tricks work in all of the major browsers

Try a form filler

Web forms are everywhere these days, and most of them ask for the same information: your name, address, e-mail address, and perhaps your credit card if you’re purchasing something. Make short work of entering all of that information by enlisting the help of a form filler. The two best ones are LastPass (http://lastpass.com) and RoboForm (http://www.roboform.com).

Source: www.viewbestads.com

66 ways to save money

TRANSPORTATION

Airline Fares

1. You can lower the price of a round-trip air fare by as much as two-thirds by making certain your trip includes a Saturday evening stay over, and by purchasing the ticket in advance.

2. To make certain you have a cheap fare, even if you use a travel agent, call all the airlines that fly where you want to go and ask what the lowest fare to your destination is.

3. Keep an eye out for fare wars. Be prepared to act quickly.

Car Rental

1. Since car rental rates can vary greatly, shop around for the best basic rates and special offers.

2. Rental car companies offer various insurance and waiver options. Check with your insurance agent and credit card company in advance to avoid duplicating any coverage you may already have.

New Cars

1. You can save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a car by selecting a model that combines a low purchase price with low financing, insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and repair costs. Ask your local librarian for new car guides that contain this information.

2. Having selected a model, you can save hundreds of dollars by comparison shopping. Call at least five dealers for price quotes and let each know that you are calling others.

3. Remember there is no "cooling off" period on new car sales. Once you have signed a contract, you are obligated to buy the car.

Used Cars

1. Before buying any used car:

a. Compare the seller's asking price with the average retail price in a "bluebook" or other guide to car prices found at many libraries, banks, and credit unions.

b. Have a mechanic you trust check the car, especially if the car is sold "as is."

2. Consider purchasing a used car from an individual you know and trust. They are more likely than other sellers to charge a lower price and point out any problems with the car.

Auto Leasing

1. Don't decide to lease a car just because the payments are lower than on a traditional auto loan. The leasing payments may be lower because you don't own the car at the end of the lease.

2. Leasing a car is very complicated. When shopping, consider the price of the car (known as the capitalized cost), your trade-in allowance, any down payment, monthly payments, various fees (excess mileage, excess "wear and tear," end-of-lease), and the cost of buying the car at the end of the lease.

Gasoline

1. You can save hundreds of dollars a year by pumping gas yourself and using the lowest-octane called for in your owner's manual.

2. You can save up to $100 a year on gas by keeping your engine tuned and your tires inflated to their proper pressure.

Car Repairs

1. Consumers lose billions of dollars each year on unneeded or poorly done car repairs. The most important step that you can take to save money on these repairs is to find a skilled, honest mechanic.

2. Before you need repairs, look for a mechanic who:

* is certified and well established;

* has done good work for someone you know; and

* communicates well about repair options and costs.

INSURANCE

Auto Insurance

1. You can save several hundred dollars a year by purchasing auto insurance from a licensed, low-price insurer. Call your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices charged by different companies. Then call at least four of the lowest-priced, licensed insurers to learn what they would charge you for the same coverage.

2. Talk to your agent or insurer about raising your deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverages to at least $500 or, if you have an old car, dropping these coverages altogether. Taking these steps can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

3. Make certain that your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one.

Homeowner Insurance

1. You can save $100 or more a year by purchasing homeowner insurance from a low-price, licensed insurer. Ask your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices charged by different licensed companies. Then call at least four of the lowest priced insurers to learn what they would charge you. If such a publication is not available, it is even more important to call at least four insurers for price quotes.

2. Make certain you purchase enough coverage to replace the house and its contents.

3. Make certain your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one.

Life Insurance

1. If you want insurance protection only, buy a term life insurance policy.

2. If you want to buy a whole life, universal life, or other cash value policy, plan to hold it for at least 15 years. Canceling these policies, after only a few years, can more than double your life insurance costs.

3. Check your public library for information about the financial soundness of insurance companies and the prices they charge. The July, August, and September 1993 issues of Consumer Reports are a valuable source of information about a number of insurers.

BANKING/CREDIT

Checking

1. You can save more than $100 a year in fees by selecting a checking account with a minimum balance requirement that you can, and do, meet.

2. Banking institutions often will drop or lower checking fees if paychecks are directly deposited by your employer. Direct deposit offers the additional advantages of convenience, security, and immediate access to your money.

Savings and Investment Products

1. Before opening a savings or investment account with a bank or other financial institution, find out whether the account is insured by the federal government. An increasing number of products offered by these institutions, including mutual stock

funds and annuities, are not insured.

2. To earn the highest return on savings (annual percentage yield) with little or no risk, consider certificates of deposit (CDs) and treasury bills or notes.

3. Once you select a type of savings or investment product, compare rates offered by different institutions. These rates can vary a lot and, over time, can significantly affect interest earnings.

Credit Cards

1. You can save as much as several hundred dollars each year in lower credit card interest charges by paying off your entire bill each month.

2. If you are unable to pay off a large balance, switch to a credit card with a low annual percentage rate (APR). For a modest fee, Bankcard Holders of America (703-389-5445) and RAM Research Corp. (800-344-7714) will send you a list of low-rate cards.

3. You can reduce credit card fees, which may add up to more than $100 a year, by getting rid of all but one or two cards, and by avoiding late payment and over-the-credit limit fees.

Auto Loans

1. If you have significant savings earning a low interest rate, consider making a large down payment or even paying for the car in cash. This could save you as much as several thousand dollars in finance charges.

2. You can save as much as hundreds of dollars in finance charges by shopping for the cheapest loan. Contact several banks, your credit union, and the auto manufacturer's own finance company.

First Mortgage Loans

1. You may save tens of thousands of dollars in interest charges by shopping for the shortest-term mortgage you can afford. On a $100,000 fixed-rate loan at 8% annual percentage rate (APR), for example, you will pay $90,000 less in interest on a 15-year mortgage than on a 30-year mortgage.

2. You can save thousands of dollars in interest charges by shopping for the lowest-rate mortgage with the fewest points. On a 15-year, $100,000 fixed-rate mortgage, just lowering the APR from 8.5% to 8.0% can save you more than $5,000 in interest charges. On this mortgage, paying two points instead of three would save you an additional $1,000.

3. If your local newspaper does not periodically run mortgage rate surveys, call at least six lenders for information about their rates (APRs), points, and fees. Then ask an accountant to compute precisely how much each mortgage option will cost and its tax implications.

4. Be aware that the interest rate on most adjustable rate mortgage loans (ARMs) can vary a great deal over the lifetime of the mortgage. An increase of several percentage points might raise payments by hundreds of dollars per month.

Mortgage Refinancing

1. Consider refinancing your mortgage if you can get a rate that is at least one percentage point lower than your existing mortgage rate and plan to keep the new mortgage for several years or more. Ask an accountant to calculate precisely how much your new mortgage (including upfront fees) will cost and whether, in the long run, it will cost less than your current mortgage.

Home Equity Loans

1. Be cautious in taking out home equity loans. These loans reduce the equity that you have built up in your home. If you are unable to make payments, you could lose your home.

2. Compare home equity loans offered by at least four banking institutions. In comparing these loans, consider not only the annual percentage rate (APR) but also points, closing costs, other fees, and the index for any variable rate changes.

HOUSING

Home Purchase

1. You can often negotiate a lower sale price by employing a buyer broker who works for you, not the seller. If the buyer broker or the broker's firm also lists properties, there may be a conflict of interest, so ask them to tell you if they are showing you a property that they have listed.

2. Do not purchase any house until it has been examined by a home inspector that you selected.

Renting a Place to Live

1. Do not limit your rental housing search to classified ads or referrals from friends and acquaintances. Select buildings where you would like to live and contact their building manager or owner to see if anything is available.

2. Remember that signing a lease probably obligates you to make all monthly payments for the term of the agreement.

Home Improvement

1. Home repairs often cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints. Select from among several well established, licensed contractors who have submitted written, fixed-price bids for the work.

2. Do not sign any contract that requires full payment before satisfactory completion of the work.

Major Appliances

1. Consult Consumer Reports, available in most public libraries, for information about specific brands and how to evaluate them, including energy use. There are often great price and quality differences among brands.

2. Once you've selected a brand, check the phone book to learn what stores carry this brand, then call at least four of these stores for the prices of specific models. After each store has given you a quote, ask if that's the lowest price they can offer you. This comparison shopping can save you as much as $100 or more.

UTILITIES

Electricity

1. To save as much as hundreds of dollars a year on electricity, make certain that any new appliances you purchase, especially air conditioners and furnaces, are energy-efficient. Information on the energy efficiency of major appliances is found on Energy Guide Labels required by federal law. Check with your electric utility to learn if it has a program to help reduce the costs of any appliance purchases.

2. Enrolling in load management programs and off-hour rate programs offered by your electric utility may save you up to $100 a year in electricity costs. Call your electric utility for information about these cost-saving programs.

Home Heating

1. A home energy audit can identify ways to save up to hundreds of dollars a year on home heating (and air conditioning). Ask your electric or gas utility if they can do this audit for free or for a reasonable charge. If they cannot, ask them to refer you to a qualified professional.

Local Telephone Service

1. Check with your phone company to see whether a flat rate or measured service plan will save you the most money.

2. You will usually save money by buying your phones instead of leasing them.

3. Check your local phone bill to see if you have optional services that you don't really need or use. Each option you drop could save you $40 or more each year.

OTHER

Food Purchased at Markets

1. You can save hundreds of dollars a year by shopping at the lower-priced food stores. Convenience stores often charge the highest prices.

2. You will spend less on food if you shop with a list.

3. You can save hundreds of dollars a year by comparing price-per- ounce or other unit prices on shelf labels. Stock up on those items with low per-unit costs.

Prescription Drugs

1. Since brand name drugs are usually much more expensive than their generic equivalents, ask your physician and pharmacist for generic drugs whenever appropriate.

2. Since pharmacies may charge widely different prices for the same medicine, call several. When taking a drug for a long time, also consider calling mail-order pharmacies, which often charge lower prices. See the October 1993 issue of Consumer Reports (available in most public libraries) for a list of several of these pharmacies and their toll-free phone numbers.

Funeral Arrangements

1. Make your wishes known about your funeral, memorial, or burial arrangements in writing. Be cautious about prepaying because there may be risks involved.

2. For information about the least costly options, which could save you several thousand dollars, contact a local memorial society, which is usually listed in the Yellow Pages under funeral services.

3. Before selecting a funeral home, call several and ask for prices of specific goods and services, or visit them to obtain an itemized price list. You are entitled to this information by law and, by using it to comparison shop; you can save hundreds of dollars.

Source: www.mediafire.com

top 9 sex related myths

Do you know everything about sex?

Think again for the more someone claims to know, the less they generally do know

Alicia Stanton, a board-certified OB/GYN and the author of ''Hormone Harmony,'' who specializes in treating men and women suffering hormone imbalances, has listed top nine sex-related myths and what the real scoop is about sex, desire, and making it all work, reports the Fox News.

Myth:

Interest in sex decreases with menopause.

Reality:

Many women maintain hormonal balance and interest in sex through menopause. And, pregnancy and menstruation are no longer a concern, spontaneity can reign. Also, they are typically more confident and knowledgeable about what they want, so sex has the potential to be better than ever.

Myth:

The only hormone important for libido is testosterone.

Reality:

Although testosterone is very important for libido and sexual function in men and women, other hormones play a part as well. Estrogen is actually very important for desire in both men and women. Also, a high level of cortisol, our "fight or flight hormone," works against libido. If your body thinks that you''re running for your life, literally or figuratively, it is not going to be very interested in sex.

Myth:

If you're truly in love, desire for sex and high libido should come easily.

Reality:

Relationships and making a real connection with someone takes time and energy. Relationships require as much attention as anything about which you are passionate. Focus on keeping your partner and his or her interests high on your priority list and you will find yourself discovering new ways to connect and keep the passion alive.

Myth:

If you're healthy, you should want sex all of the time.

Reality:

A wide variety in sexual appetite or level of libido exists. The way you know if you're having the "right" amount of sex is if you and your partner are both happy with your level of activity. There's no need to compare yourself to others.

Myth:

If you're connected with your partner, you shouldn't have to ask for what you need.

Reality:

Even if you and your partner haven't previously spoken much about your sexual relationship, it might be good to start talking. This is especially true if you're entering a new phase of life, including childbirth, menopause, or andropause, often called male menopause. If you begin to notice changes in your body or sexual desire, be sure to let your partner know what's going on. And, remember, communicating about what feels good enhances the experience for both of you.

Myth:

Your most important sex organs are "south of the border."

Reality:

Although those places are lots of fun, remember that your brain is the biggest sex organ in your body. You always have the ability to choose how you feel and think about sex and your sexuality. The desirability a man or woman feels about himself or herself is a very potent aphrodisiac. If you feel irresistible, your partner will find you irresistible. Passion is contagious!

Myth:

If you don't have a partner, there is no sense in having a libido.

Reality:

Having a loving relationship with yourself is essential. Even if you don't currently have a partner, feeling sensual and desirable will add passion to many aspects of your life. It takes practice to learn what arouses you and what a potential partner finds arousing. Learning to pleasure yourself is an important skill that you can continue to enjoy on your own, or that you can teach to a partner one day.

Myth:

Women are the only ones who have problems with low libido.

Reality:

Although the sexual desire disorder known as low libido is more common in women, it occurs in men as well. Some physical causes include alcohol, various medications, stress, hormone imbalances (such as low testosterone), cocaine use, brain tumors that produce the hormone prolactin, diabetes, and other major diseases such as cancer.

Myth:

Hormonal issues are the only cause of low libido in women.

Reality:

There are hormone imbalances such as low estrogen, low testosterone, hypothyroidism, and high cortisol from stress, but there are many other potential causes as well. Physical problems such as vulvar or vaginal pain or dryness may cause an increase in frustration and reduced libido. Surgery or other major health conditions like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure or arthritis can also reduce libido.

Also, relationship issues, psychological issues (including depression), alcohol, tobacco use, and weight issues may also contribute to low libido.
Source: www.mid-day.com

7 ugly truths about pregnancy

Unlike in the movies, pregnancy is not all about food cravings and pampering. Swollen feet, rashes, constipation. The list is pretty long.

Here's the lowdown on things that they don't tell you about getting pregnant.

Truth 1 : There will be mood swingsImagine PMS and then multiply it hundred fold. That's the kind of mood swings we're talking about. And no, its not the world, but the high levels of estrogen, which the body produces to maintain pregnancy, are at blame. Dr Sonal Kumta, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at The Fortis Hospitals, says, "Pregnancy is a phase of intense hormonal changes in a woman's body. This can make her emotionally instable, she may be irritable, irrational, weep a lot and be excessively happy too."
What to do: There's nothing like a hot cup of TLC. Handle yourself with care, pamper yourself with good food and all that you like and just sit back and let the world gush over you.

Truth 2 : Your breasts will changeDon't be surprised if you're bra size changes during pregnancy. Also, be prepared for increased tenderness and darker nipples. "During pregnancy, the breasts are preparing to lactate, hence the changes. At that time, breasts can be painful to touch or press. Many a times one can secrete milk as early as four months," says Dr. Sudeshna Ray, gynaecologist, Jaslok Hospital.
What to do: Make sure you wear the right cup size, to prevent sagging breasts later on.

Truth 3 : You're going to get stretch marksBring out your moisturizers and massage oils. This is one every expectant mother's nightmare. "Stretch marks in pregnancy are inevitable. The skin stretches rapidly in a short period of time, causing bluish lines, which eventually turn white. They are more prominent around the stomach, upper chest and hips," says Dr.
Satish Wadhwa, dermatologist, Breach Candy Hospital. "Some women also suffer from pigmentation, especially on the face and private parts. This is especially common in first time mothers. Some women may also develop severe rashes, but that goes away as soon as the baby is born," he adds.
What to do: "Stretch marks are something you just have to put up with," says Dr. Wadhwa. "You can apply oil or creams before they appear, but they will remain nonetheless." Pigmentation will eventually wear off after pregnancy. "Stay out of the sun and use a sunscreen," advises Dr Wadhwa.

Truth 4 : You will throw up"The term morning sickness is a misnomer. It can occur at any time of the day and is also called simple vomiting of pregnancy," says Dr Kumta. " This happens as a result of increased levels of hormones of pregnancy and usually subsides by the 4th month. Heightened sense of smell is a part of morning sickness." "Vomitting 3-4 times a day is considered normal, but watch out for drastic weight loss, excessive salivation and thirst," warns Dr. Ray.
What to do: "Eat a high protein diet, plenty of fluids, prenatal vitamin supplements, avoid sight, smell, taste of foods that make you queasy, eat often and don't force yourself to eat what you don't feel like," advises Dr. Kumta.

Truth 5 : You will retain water"Water retention is normal during pregnancy, as is the swelling of the feet, fingers and face. Usually, the swelling disappears during a nights rest, only to be back the next morning. The edema usually occurs due to hormonal changes, the weight of the womb which can stop blood supply to the calf and water retention," says Dr. Ray. "Edema is considered normal as long as there is no change in blood pressure."
What to do: "A hot water bath and massage usually do the trick. Lack of calcium can cause cramps, so take calcium supplements. Sometimes, Vitamin E and omega fatty acid supplements are also prescribed," says Dr Ray.

Truth 6 : Your libido will change "Pregnancy is a time for change. Women with low sex drive may have an increase and others may find that they completely lack it," says Dr. Kumta. "The diminished sex drive is because of the high levels of progesterone, like the time when women P.M.S. There is also an inhibition and a fear attached to sex when pregnant. Women aren't comfortable with their bodies, but all these fears are irrational," says Dr Ray.
What to do: "Sex during pregnancy is not a problem, unless advised against by your doctor. Different positions that take the weight off the belly are safe. Sometimes, sex is also advised towards the latter stages of pregnancy to initiate labour," says Dr Ray. "Feelings are erratic during pregnancy," says Dr Kumta, "but there's nothing that mutual understanding cannot solve."

Truth 7 : Your bladder will act up "Progesterone makes digestion slow, which leads to constipation and piles," says Dr Ray. "Also the pressure of the womb on the bladder means you will be running to the bathroom more often. There are times when you might pass a bit of urine when sneezing or laughing. This problem is not serious, and is seen in women who suffer from it regardless of pregnancy as well," she adds.
What to do:  " A soft diet with lots of greens and fibre and plenty of fluids is the best way to prevent constipation. Go for a brisk walk and use a mild laxative, only after consulting a doctor. In terms of urination, reassurance helps. It will all be okay after delivery," says Dr. Kumta.
What pregnancy means for the dadPregnancy means fathers-to-be are running around, pampering their wives and fulfilling their every whim. Dr Dilip Raja, andrologist, insists that while there are no physical implications of fatherhood, it brings with it huge responsibility and lifestyle changes.
"There is a sense of excitement and anxiousness, especially for first-time fathers. Stress levels are high. Many a times, men get isolated during and after the pregnancy. It is crucial that both partners understand and support each other." And then again, pregnancy also affects the couple's sex life. "For a long time, intimacy is less. Women lose their desire, or are uncomfortable with their bodies.
One can try different positions, but in the long run, this is where maturity comes in. Also, you are now more home bound. It all comes down to the equation and understanding between the couple," he says.
And now for the good news...
Women around the globe have voted giving birth as the most beautiful experience in their lives. Dr Ray echoes the sentiment. "Being able to conceive and give birth is an immensely satisfying feeling. The most important thing is that you're creating and maintaining a new life.
Besides, being pregnant, giving birth and breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer." High levels of estrogen during pregnancy add a radiant glow to the skin. "It's a beginning of a new life," says Dr Kumta. "The glow is not only thanks to the estrogen, but also reflects the positive state of being of the mother-to-be."

Source: www.mid-day.com