Eve Ensler and Vagina Monologues

Initially my reaction to the Eve Eiller video was one of astonishment. I have never heard anyone say the word vagina as many times as I heard her say it. I have never looked at myself through a mirror nor have I named myself. I thought initially that it was quite humorous and then she began to speak of the vagina monologues that she used to perform. She went on to speak about how many women came and spoke to her after and just told her about the many people that abused them or how their vaginas were mutilated. Eve goes on to speak about how she helped women who were abused speak out (Eve Ensler, 2006). There was one girl named Agnes who was abused and she walked through the dust and river rafts with models of normal vaginas and mutilated vaginas speaking out to many people in the villages about female circumcision (Eve Ensler, 2006). Agnes explained what was wrong and how girls and women should not stand up for such things. Eve began to help support Agnes and her movement. I believe that I thought this was amazing how she could speak out about female circumcision.  Because of women like Eve, other women who are abused can speak out and find support and strength from their stories.  I applaud Eve in her efforts to change the world.

Resources:

Eve Ensler. (2006, September). Eve Ensler: happiness in body and soul. Retrieved December 3, 2010, from TED: Ideas Worth Spreading: http://www.ted.com/talks/eve_ensler_on_happiness_in_body_and_soul.html

Drug Treatments

I believe that between the options of putting drug addicts in jail or sending them to mandatory drug treatment programs depends on the addict. If the addict is willing to change, the better option would be to put the drug addicts in a mandatory drug treatment program. The program would only work if the addicts were genuinely willing to change. If the addicts are not willing to change, then they would just fall back into the cycle.  Mandatory drug treatment programs could probably help those who know that it is about time that they stopped messing with drugs. If the addict begins to realize that what he or she is doing is ruining their lives, then maybe it would be better for them to be placed in a program. I feel like if the addicts are not willing to change their ways, they should be put in jail.  Putting them in jail is better because it keeps them off the street and out of temptation.  Even in jail, they could possibly try and get some kind of help from others who are willing to share their stories. Many addicts can figure out how to help each other.  If the addicts become close to a group of people with the same issues and all of them decide to get help, then that could benefit them. No one wants to go through a treatment program by themselves without any support.  

Mental Health

I recently have found out that my brother is dating one of my good friends.  I think this is great, my mom however thinks this is a bit worrisome.  She told me about a relative in my friend’s family that is diagnosed with bipolar disorder.  She has already voiced her concerns to me about how if my brother and his girlfriend were to get married, then we would have the disorder in our lineage.  I told her that was a stupid reason for her to be worried about.  After going through this module, I was surprised at how society has a huge stigma on mental health.  My mom is very traditional and she’s used to having arranged marriages, where the parents go through a sort of bio-data of a person before considering them for their child.  My mom expressed that we shouldn’t have anyone who is mentally unstable or unhealthy added to our family.  I feel bad for those who are mentally unstable.  I feel like society should try to help those who have issues with their mental health versus casting judgment on them.  

According to the Mayo Clinic, such stigmas can have harmful effects to those with mental illness. Some harmful effects are:  trying to pretend nothing is wrong, refusal to seek treatment, rejection by family and friends, work or school problems or discrimination, difficulty finding housing, being subjected to physical violence or harassment, and inadequate health insurance coverage of mental illnesses (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Some of the suggestions they made to overcome these stigmas are to get treatment, seek support, don’t let stigma create self-doubt and shame, don’t equate yourself with your illness, use your resources, get help at school, join an advocacy group, and speak out (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Diagnosis and treatment can find out what is wrong and can find a way to reduce symptoms that interfere with work and personal life (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Coming to terms with your illness can help reduce feeling ashamed, embarrassed or humiliated. Psychological counseling may also help gain self-esteem and help cope with your own self-judgment.  If you tell people you trust, you may find compassion, support and acceptance. It’s important to stay in touch with those family members who understand (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  You are not an illness, so don’t say that you are; instead, say that you have a disorder or a condition.  Take advantage of federal, state, and nonprofit resources available to help support people with mental health conditions (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Talk to teachers, professors, or administrators about the best approach and available resources for when you are in school.  Discrimination against students because of a mental health condition is against the law (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Some local and national groups, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) have programs that watch for and correct stereotypes, misinformation and disrespectful portrayals of people with mental illnesses (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).  Speaking at events can help instill courage in others facing similar challenges and also educate the public about mental illness. Until you gain confidence, you may want to start at small events, such as talks at a support group or church community (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009).

Resources:

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2009, May 29). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Retrieved November 19, 2010, from Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mental-health/MH00076

Future In Mind

When I make decisions, I tend to make decisions for the short term and not necessarily the long term. My boyfriend is always criticizing me about how I should make long term decisions versus short term decisions.  He always explains that long term decisions are more beneficial rather than short term ones. I feel like you have to think a different way in order to consider the long term decisions.  What I have learned is that doctors think straightforward in order to fix what is illness is; however, nurses think outside the box in order to help alleviate the symptoms, not the illness itself.  

I feel like if everyone thought in terms of the future, I feel like our lifestyles would be different. If we considered our future every time we made decision, I think our lives would be a bit more organized and prepared.  I personally am not interested in politics, but I have noticed how I should be.  If I am not mistaken, past generations were not thinking about us when making certain decisions, like social security ; and now our generation may not be able to be qualified for social security or may not be able to receive anything for social security.  For whatever reason, we tend to think short term; what would benefit us in the next two to five years and not necessarily thinking what would benefit us in the next fifteen to twenty years.  I believe the fields of science and medicine, and any other relating fields, is the only fields that tend to think with our future in mind.

If we thought with our future in mind regarding our habits, we may not even have to worry about breaking a bad habit or worrying that it may harm us in the future.  For example, at a young age, if we are taught that sugary drinks and oily foods are not beneficial for us in the long run and may only satisfy our short fix, then we may not limit ourselves in what we eat and may not have as much obesity and diabetes in the future.  If we thought with our future in mind regarding our behaviors, then we may not regret some of the decisions we would’ve made.  Using myself as an example, a coworker of mine complained to my boss about how I was being rude and disrespectful to her. In actuality, it was the other way around and I never reported anything.  In that moment out of anger and frustration, I could have said some harsh words when our boss was not around, but I took the high road and thought about my future and how difficult work would be if I were to say something. 

I understand that we’re supposed to carpe diem, live each day to the fullest, and live in the moment, but we can also do all of these things while considering our future.  If we considered our future and all the decisions we would have to take, then maybe we could carpe diem all we want.

Cardiovascular Disase

In my family there's no history of cardiovascular disease, but there is a high incidence of high blood pressure, high cholesterol,and diabetes; all common factors of CVD. What I believe to be interesting is that these the majority of my family that express one or more of these conditions are men. This makes me feel somewhat better about myself, but I still want to take measures that will benefit me.

The factors that might play in my family is the cultural and environmental factors. I grew up in a neo-traditional south Indian home where the men eat before the women, they also eat a lot more. While the women typically spend more time in the kitchen and eat whatever is left over.  I believe this may have played a part in the reason why men in my family are more prone to CVD.

Physically, I believe that the men are generally bigger than the women before pregnancy, but after pregnancy, women tend to be bigger than the men. This may be because the men try to keep the baby healthy by fattening up the mother, and as a result, the women are left with extra unnecessary weight. 

Socially, the women were always closer to the kitchen and would wait on the men, until they had enough food.

Socioeconomically, when I compare the health status between my dad's side of the family and my mom's side of the family, my dad's side of the family has all the high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. I found this interesting because my dad's side of the family is generally a bit more wealthier than my mom's side of the family. I am sure that because of their wealth, they were more prone to buy the unhealthier foods. In comparison, to the American society, I've noticed that its the other way around. Generally, it is the unhealthy foods that are cheaper, such as the dollar menu at McDonald's; the healthier foods are more expensive, such as at Schlotzsky's a sandwich is generally about 6 or 7 dollars.

Educationally, both my parents' families have had the education about the risks of cardiovascular disease. I believe money played a big part in how they ate their meals despite the education they had on CVD. Now that my families are living in America, they know how to eat healthy and are willing to spend the money on it, but it might be too late for some of my family members.

I have seen the measures my families are taking to make sure they eat healthy. They're eating more lean meat, vegetables, fruit and less sugar and fats. I am proud of my families and the change they have willing done.

Media and Body Image

My 12-year old cousin, Amelia, is tall and thin, but she does not see herself in that same light. It saddens me when she tells me that she looks fat and she needs to lose weight.  Thing is, the same can be said of her older sister, Annie, who is 15-years old.  I know when I was their age our families were very harsh on me and my weight. I have struggled with my weight and I try and not feel bad about myself, but sometimes when you hear people constantly telling you things like you should lose weight, it begins to wear you down. When Amelia and Annie were 8 and 5, respectively, I remember them asking me about the Disney princesses and asking me which one I liked the best and when I would tell them, they would respond with, “Oh no, she’s too fat.”  When I look at Disney princesses, I see them all as thin princesses. I was very astonished that they were thinking like this at a very young age. I believe media plays a big role in our lives and especially in the lives of teenagers.  For example, the media exploded when Jessica Simpson gained a few pounds, but they also did gave some attention to when actresses like Mischa Barton became scarily thin.  When Jessica Simpson gained a few pounds, she only went to a size 6 and fluctuated a bit (Jessica Simpson weighs in on fat jokes, 2010).  When Britney Spears was ridiculed for gaining a few extra pounds, her reaction was this, “I looked like a fat pig” ('I looked like a fat pig,' says Britney after MTV fiasco, 2007). If you were to look at Britney Spears during this time, she just looks a little bit curvier than she did previously, but not necessarily fat. This is who our younger generation looks up towards; women who struggle with their bodies and their image.  I believe if our families and our peers do not pressure us to looking a certain way and to embracing our own bodies, that women around the world would not feel as self conscious as we do now. I believe that our media should be aware of the influence it has on young girls who have body image issues. I feel like if health educators can give girls the confidence they need to embrace their body image, that those girls would be less likely to having eating disorders.  I believe there are certain people in the media who are trying to be open to diversity of body shape, size and color. Each person is made differently and no one person can have the same body as another.  If educators can help girls understand the risks of eating disorders, then maybe these girls can understand the life they’ve been given is worth living healthily.  If someone had encouraged me while I was growing up and told me to embrace my body, then maybe I wouldn’t be having such a hard time with my own personal body issues.  I try to open my cousins, Amelia and Annie’s eyes to not focus on the flaws they have with their body image, but how beautiful they are.

The following site has a slideshow of many celebrities that had weight issues throughout their careers.

http://chicago.metromix.com/home/essay_photo_gallery/celebrities-who-got-fat/1052028/content

Resources:

Celebrities who got fat and thin. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2010, from metromix: http://chicago.metromix.com/home/essay_photo_gallery/celebrities-who-got-fat/1052028/content

'I looked like a fat pig,' says Britney after MTV fiasco. (2007, September 13). Retrieved October 27, 2010, from Mail Online: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-480947/I-looked-like-fat-pig-says-Britney-MTV-fiasco.html

Jessica Simpson weighs in on fat jokes. (2010, March 4). Retrieved October 27, 2010, from New York Post: http://www.nypost.com/p/pagesix/jessie_weighs_in_on_fat_jokes_2duiUbwY1jPYKbhlPP0HNO

Cross- Cultural Menopause

This article found on the Women to Women website written by Dixie Mills, MD, is a great article about the cross cultural views on menopause. She first focuses on the Japanese culture and how women do not freely speak of menstruation or menopause, but in their culture, menopause does not bother them as much. Dr. Mills writes about how Japanese women do not go through the similar symptoms that American women go through, such as, hot flashes, insomnia, and depression. Instead, Japanese women mostly complain about shoulder stiffness or chillness (Dixie Mills, 2007).  She also explains how their lifestyle helps them have a better transitioning through menopause. She suggests that their diet of phytoestrogens and isoflavones, found in soybeans, and weekly exercise help them have less drastic changes in their menopause (Dixie Mills, 2007).

She then speaks of the Mayan culture and how they have “an all-natural, herb-based diet, and a slow, relatively easy pace of life, both elements which contribute heavily to fewer menopausal symptoms…” (Dixie Mills, 2007). She also explains “Mayan women also acquire new status when they enter menopause: they can become spiritual leaders of their communities” (Dixie Mills, 2007).  Dr. Mills continues to write about her findings on shamanistic cultures and menopause, “women must enter menopause to access their shamanic and healing powers. Menstrual blood has the power to create life in the womb, so when women reach the age of retaining their “wise blood,” they cross the threshold into “wise womanhood” by keeping their wise blood within. At this point they become priestesses and healers — the spiritual leaders of their communities” (Dixie Mills, 2007).

She goes on to explain about other cultures and their views about menopause. “Women in Kaliai, Papua New Guinea, welcome the end of childbearing without symptoms, as do many Native Americans and subcontinental Indians. And in northern Sudan, menopause is merely another facet of growing older, bringing with it increased social power and respect” (Dixie Mills, 2007). “In both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, the approach to menopause recognizes the individual. Similar symptom clusters (for example, hot flashes and night sweats, insomnia and anxiety) may arise in two women of entirely different constitutions for very different reasons. And both these ancient approaches, have always tailored treatment toward restoring balance to the individual, not to common symptoms” (Dixie Mills, 2007).

She ends her article explaining how if women in the United States took on the views of these other cultures on menopause, then menopause would not be such a fearful period of our lives. She promotes all women to embrace their menopause and not be weary of it.

Resources:

Dixie Mills, M. (2007, August 2). A look at menopause across cultures. Retrieved October 22, 2010, from Women to Women: http://www.womentowomen.com/menopause/menopauseacrosscultures.aspx

 I found this article to be enlightening and I feel like when the time comes for me to go through menopause, I shouldn’t be so depressed about it, but I should be grateful for it! Menopause is considered the renewal of one’s self around the world and that’s how we, as Americans, should view it as well.

Cultural Views on Sexuality

Human sexuality is view differently all around the world depending on the different cultures. The article I was reading is by a Chinese native who expressed his view of sex and reproduction. He titled his paper "Sex and Reproduction: A Cross-Cultural View." He begins by speaking about how China contrasts itself with its immense population and lack of resources, long history and culture and lack of educational system, and large land and various levels of development.

He first writes that "human sex is expressed in four dimensions, which include genetics (sex determining genes and sex chromosomes), biology (sexual organs and the secondary sexual characteristics), psychology (desire to be a male or female), and sociology (social identity of gender)" (Mao). Mao goes on to explain that any dissociation of these dimensions was expressed as sexual deviation.  He explains how the prevalence and incidence of sexual deviation in China are unknown. It was said that in old Chinese royal families, all male householders were castrated and in the old opera houses, only a male was allowed to play a female. These male actors who portrayed women through long term training and practicing lost his male identity (Mao).Over a long period of time in China, mainstream attitudes towards sexual deviation were perceived negatively. This was considered more worrisome to parents of sexually deviated sons because this would be the stop to their family name and lineage.

According to the Chinese native, it was not possible to bring up sex and reproduction without bringing up marriage. Traditionally, it seemed that Chinese marriage and family were quite stable despite the few occurrences of divorce. Divorce was usually based on lack of communication, intolerable personality, and extreme unhappiness in family life (Mao). When a couple divorces, it is always negatively connoted for women because it is assumed that the couple divorced due to unfaithfulness. When a divorced man remarries, he looks for a younger female and is not looked down upon unlike a divorced woman.

For married couples that make it work, the Chinese government had a family planning campaign to control the overpopulation crisis in China. Each couple was only allowed to have just one child. This brought forth many gender imbalances where the ratio for boys to girls was 115 to 100 in 1994 (Mao).  The government began to realize how much of a disaster this would be for China in the future, so they are allowing single-child-couples to have one more child. Mao ends his paper off with genetics and ethics and how these couples would benefit from the use of gender selection technologies.

My personal view on this article is that I think that everyone has a right to express who they are. I believe homosexuality or sexual deviation is a genetic condition in the sense that you are born in having a sense of you. I personally find homosexuality a little confusing and somewhat detestable, but I respect people and their choices to do whatever makes them happy. I feel as though its greedy for parents to put their lineage before their child's happiness. I grew up in a household where sex and reproduction is for the marriage bed and that's to be kept pure before marriage.  I don't believe in divorce and the only exception would be abuse of any kind. I have seen the results of arranged marriages where people worked hard to keep their marriages intact and have lasted many, many years together. I also think that in our society a divorced man is accepted but a divorced woman is criticized, which I do not understand. It is as though women will always be looked down upon and women's movement hasn't progressed much. I don't think the government has a right to limit the number of children a couple is to have. I feel like if one couple wants 32 kids there are plenty of other couples in the world that do not want any children. I believe the world has a way of staying in balance with nature.

Resources:

Mao, X. (n.d.). Sex and Reproduction: A Cross-Cultural View. Retrieved October 15, 2010, from http://90.146.8.18/en/archiv_files/20001/E2000_135.pdf

Top 10 Questions Recent Pregnant Women Might Ask

1.     How can I relieve my morning sickness?

According to Beth Hering from babycenter.com, possible relief for morning sickness is that if you can eat something small an hour before actually getting up and sleeping off the nausea tend to help or drinking Sprite helped keep the nausea down. Another suggestion was to go get a prescription from your doctor for Zofran. However, each pregnancy is different and so each method cannot work for everyone. (Hering, 2009)

According to YOU: Having a Baby, there are plenty of remedies to relieve nausea, they suggest that eating 100% whole-grain crackers, eating high diet of protein and complex carbohydrates, sipping chicken broth, eating cold foods, taking vitamin B6, eating leafy greens, eating brown rice, drinking ginger root with tea, and getting light exercise (YOU Docs).

2.     What should I be eating or not eating?

According to YOU Docs, it is better to eat foods that are organic and that will generally follow the food pyramid. They suggest having nine or more servings of fruits and vegetables three or more servings of whole-grain products, lean protein, and calcium-rich foods, and five or more servings of fat in the form of omega-3s (YOU Docs).  According to an answer reviewed by Dr. Mikio NIhira, she says to avoid fish with lots of mercury, raw fish, unpasteurized soft cheeses, unpasteurized milk, cold ready-to-eat meats, uncooked or cured eggs and meats, alcohol, and caffeine (Nihira, 2009). 

The BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board goes on to explain why some of these foods should be avoided. Eating raw seafood, unpasteurized milk and cheese, and undercooked meat and poultry could harbor bacteria that can harm the unborn child. “Nearly all fish contain traces of methylmercury, a metal believed to be harmful in high doses to the growing brains of fetuses and young children” (The Baby Center Medical Advisory Board, 2009) The BabyCenter goes on to explain how women who consume caffeine are twice as likely to miscarry as women who consume no caffeine. “Large amounts of caffeine have also been linked to slightly lower birth weight and even stillbirth” (The Baby Center Medical Advisory Board, 2009).

3.     Should I start taking prenatal vitamins? What vitamins are necessary during pregnancy?

WebMD explains how multivitamins are extremely important for proper fetus growth and development (PharmD, 2010). According to BabyCenter, “most women can benefit from taking a prenatal vitamin and a mineral supplement” (Baby Center Medical Advisory Board, 2005).  They go on to explain that in most diets, it is hard to get the appropriate amount of folic acid and iron necessary during pregnancy. “Folic acid reduces the chance of a baby having a neural tube defect, like spina bifida, in which the spine or brain does not form the right way” (HHS, 2008) The iron is necessary so that one does not develop iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy.

4.     Can I still have sex during pregnancy? Is it safe for the baby?

Sex during pregnancy is safe for those women who are considered low-risk for complications.  If you are having a normal pregnancy, then you can have sex. Your baby is safely cushioned in the amniotic sac and protected by uterine muscles, and walled off by a mucus plug in the cervix and therefore, will not feel or know if you were having sex (Kellicker, 2010).  Sex during the last few weeks of pregnancy should be avoided because it can induce labor (Hoffman, 2008).  It is also unsafe to participate in oral sex because if air is forced or blown into your vagina, it can cause an air embolism, which blocks blood vessels and can be life threatening to the baby and the mother (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2010).

5.     When should I start prenatal visits? What should I expect from these visits?

You should schedule an appointment with your obstetrician as soon as you think you’re pregnant. Usually the first prenatal visit is scheduled until the sixth to eighth week of pregnancy, unless there are some complications with the pregnancy (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2010). According to BabyCenter, the first visit will most likely be the longest under normal circumstances and all future prenatal checkups should be easier (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2010).

According to the editorial staff of Family Doctor, the first visit is usually a pelvic exam to check the size and shape of the uterus and a Pap smear to check any abnormalities of the cervix. This is followed by, “urine tests to check for bacteria in your urine, high sugar levels (which can be a sign of diabetes) and high protein levels (which can put you at risk for preeclampsia, a type of high blood pressure during pregnancy). Blood tests to check for low iron levels (anemia), blood cell count, infectious diseases (such as syphilis and hepatitis) and blood type are also performed” (Family Doctor Editorial Staff, 2000).  The doctor will also check for your weight gain, blood pressure, baby’s heart rate, and stomach growth and will perform routine tests to screen your baby for abnormalities or take a glucose tolerance test to ensure your blood sugars are normal (Davis, 2010)

6.     Can the baby hear me if I start talking or reading to him?

Research shows that a baby can respond to familiar sounds that he heard while he was in the womb. According to the BabyCenter Editorial Team, “Heartbeat and breathing slow down when you play soft music and speed up with fast tunes” (BabyCenter Editorial Team, 2009 ). According to YOU Docs, fetuses can recognize their mothers’ voices by week 24; they listen to the rhythm and melody of the voices they hear, this generally serves as their foundation for language (YOU Docs). YOU Docs also say that exposure to different sounds and senses is what helps establish connections in the brain (YOU Docs).

7.     Is there a proper way to sleep while being pregnant without hurting the baby?

The best way to sleep is the position that is comfortable for you. If you are a back sleeper, this can be a problem later in the pregnancy. As your uterus grows it becomes heavier, putting pressure on a large blood vessel that takes your blood from your legs to your heart (Atlas, 2010).  If there is pressure on this blood vessel, then there’s a decreased blood flow to the heart making you sweat and slowing down the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your baby (Turk, 2007).

YOU Docs have a few suggestions on getting comfortable while pregnant. They suggest that you have multiple pillows, if you are having difficulty breathing; not to drink water after 6 p.m. as this will reduce the need to use the restroom; if you have aches and pains, take Tylenol to quiet the pain, this will help get restorative sleep; small glass of warm milk has a sugar that stimulates insulin which helps people fall asleep; and turn the air condition up, this keeps the environment cooler (YOU Docs). Lying on your left side is better than lying on your right side, as this allows more blood flow to the uterus (YOU Docs).

8.     Will I lose the weight I gain during pregnancy? Will I be able to have my body back?

It took nine long months for you to gain all the weight during pregnancy; it will take time for you to lose the weight. It is always different for everyone; most women gain about 25 to 30 pounds during pregnancy. Doctors say that if you don’t weigh enough, you need to gain more and if you are overweight, you need to gain less (Davis, 2010). 

Debi Pillarella, a fitness expert, says that your body will change “Your hips may be broader, your bottom slightly rounder, or your waist just thick enough to require one size larger in fitted pants and skirts. (Pillarella).  She also says that the two essentials for shedding pounds is eating sensibly and exercising regularly. A suggestion she made was to go to a health club or YMCA and join their post natal fitness classes where you can struggle with other new moms and even have workouts with your baby (Pillarella).

YOU Docs also suggest that tightening your abdominal wall can also help reawaken the abs to help achieve that flat stomach (YOU Docs). Another tidbit that YOU Docs explain is that breastfeeding will speed up the process of shedding pounds and that most women hang out to the last few pounds until they wean their babies (YOU Docs).

9.     What is the appropriate birthing method I should have?

Birthing methods are often up to the mother and depends on how she prefers it. According to babyzone, there are many ways to give birth: home birth, natural birth, medicated birth, cesarean section, water birth (hydrotherapy), hypno-birthing, reflexology, acupuncture and acupressure, and herbal therapy (BabyZone Editors).  

Many people choose the option of having a natural home birth with the assistance of a midwife when the circumstances of the pregnancy have been normal and are safe for the mother and the baby (DiLeo).  Couples want to be in the comforts of their own home when bringing in their child into a new world; it makes them less anxious and helps them relax.  Natural birth has different options such as the Lamaze method or the Bradley method.

The Lamaze method of childbirth is basically the focus of controlled breathing during labor. This method is to help the mother gain confidence in giving a natural birth without medications (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2008).  The Lamaze method also gives the women the confidence when interventions are needed, that it is okay to want pain relief medications.

The Bradley method of childbirth is a method that embraces natural process. About 85% of Bradley-trained couples have had spontaneous, unmedicated vaginal births (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2008). With a Bradley course, one can learn the importance of exercise and nutrition, common pregnancy symptoms and complaints, techniques for relaxation during labor and birth, methods to help your partner be an active participant, stages of labor, medical interventions, how to reduce risk of C-section, making a birth plan, and breastfeeding (BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, 2008).

Medicated births are for those mothers who want to go through labor with very minimal pain using analgesics. However, there are many medications which alleviate certain factors, but can also complicate things. Nina DuBois explains how medicated births can cause complications, “As a result of analgesics, newborns may require oxygen because of breathing difficulties, or be born sleepy and unable to suck“ (DuBois, 2010) She also explains how forceps are required to in deliveries of women under general anesthesia because they cannot assist in the birthing process; vomiting under general anesthesia can cause breathing complications or death; general anesthesia crosses the placenta and enters fetal circulation causing grogginess in newborns (DuBois, 2010).

Cesarean births, both planned and unplanned, are happening more commonly now. Unplanned Cesarean sections occur when complications arise during labor and surgery may be the safest option at the time. Planned Cesarean section are usually a medical necessity, but otherwise women who have busy schedules or have the need to know when their baby will actually be born tend to have a planned C-section (Chin).

Water birth, also known as hydrotherapy, is generally where you would sit in a tub of warm water and have a natural birth. The warm water tends to help transition the baby into the world, since it is the same temperature and environment as the mothers’ womb; the water also tends to help mothers relax and alleviate the pain (Chin). “There are concerns that a baby can develop an infection if he or she begins breathing while underwater and inhales the soiled birthing water” (Ehmann, 2009).  Ehmann also goes on to say that according to American College of Nurse Midwives, “healthy babies do not gasp upon delivery, rather they do not take a breath until they are removed from the water and reach the air” (Ehmann, 2009).  

A new form of natural childbirth is hypnobirthing. According to Dr. Chin, “HypnoBirthing is a form of self-hypnosis that reduces pain and stress during labor through guided imagery, affirmations, and special breathing techniques. It teaches the mom-to-be how to calm, control, and relax her body (without being in a trance), allowing endorphins to replace the hormones that cause pain” (Chin).

What to Expect says, “Reflexology is a therapy based on the notion that areas on the hands and feet are linked to other areas and organs of the body” (Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy). It basically soothes the aches and pains in your back and joints; reflexologists believe that it can also help morning sickness, heartburn, swelling in your legs, constipation, high blood pressure, insomnia, bladder problems, mild cramping, and hemorrhoids (Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy).

Acupuncture and acupressure is the act of putting pressure with needles or massage in certain locations on your body. It has been an old method of relieving certain bodily imbalances. With pregnancy, it is said that it can help relieve morning sickness; it can also induce labor when over stimulated (Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy).

What to Expect writes, “Herbal therapy is a form of holistic medicine that uses natural herbs for their healing powers (Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy). With pregnancy, some herbs can be beneficial and some can be lethal. All herbs should be okay-ed with your physician. Much of herbal therapy is generally for the actual pregnancy and not the birthing process (Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy).

10.  Who can be in the labor room with me?

Usually, it is your decision whether to have additional family members, friends, or labor coaches in the birthing room with you. Commonly, women prefer to have their partner and medical staff in the birthing room; some have also had an additional relative or friend present (BabyCenter Editorial Staff). When you bring your partners into the room, make sure that they understand their role in the birthing process. Mothers or mothers-in-law may put more pressure on you during labor; if necessary; notify the hospital staff whether or not you want them present (BabyCenter Editorial Staff).

RESOURCES:

Atlas, R. O. (2010, August 31). Is it dangerous to sleep on your back when you are pregnant? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from WebMD Answers: http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1193238/Is-it-dangerous-to-sleep-on

Baby Center Medical Advisory Board. (2005, November). Prenatal vitamin supplements: A nutritional insurance policy. Retrieved October 6, 2010, from Baby Center: http://www.babycenter.com/0_prenatal-vitamin-supplements-a-nutritional-insurance-policy_287.bc

BabyCenter Editorial Staff. (n.d.). Your pregnancy: 32 weeks. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-32-weeks_1121.bc

BabyCenter Editorial Team. (2009 , July 14). Is it worth trying to stimulate my baby's development in utero? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from babycenter: http://www.babycenter.com/404_is-it-worth-trying-to-stimulate-my-babys-development-in-uter_6715.bc

BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board. (2008, August). Bradley method of childbirth. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/0_bradley-method-of-childbirth_631.bc

BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board. (2010, February). Sex during pregnancy: An overview. Retrieved October 6, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/sex-during-pregnancy-overview?showAll=true

BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board. (2008, December). The Lamaze method of childbirth. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/0_the-lamaze-method-of-childbirth_640.bc

BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board. (2010, February). Your first prenatal visit. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/0_your-first-prenatal-visit_9344.bc

BabyZone Editors. (n.d.). 12 Ways to Give Birth. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from babyzone: http://www.babyzone.com/pregnancy/labor_birth/photos_ways_to_give_birth/

Chin, D. A. (n.d.). Birthing Methods: Know Your Options. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from The Cradle: http://www.thecradle.com/birthingoptions

Complementary and Alternative Medicine During Pregnancy. (n.d.). Retrieved October 7, 2010, from What to Expect: http://www.whattoexpect.com/alternative-medicine-pregnancy.aspx

Davis, K. (2010, September 27). What Are Some Questions or Concerns a Pregnant Women Might Have? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from LIVESTRONG: http://www.livestrong.com/article/260821-what-are-some-questions-or-concerns-a-pregnant-women-might-have/

DiLeo, D. J. (n.d.). Hospital Birth vs. Home Birth: A Debate on Choices. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from babyzone: http://www.babyzone.com/pregnancy/labor_birth/article/hospital-birth-home-birth-debate

DuBois, N. (2010, August 6). What Are the Different Methods of Childbirth Delivery? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from eHow: http://www.ehow.com/list_6823255_different-methods-childbirth-delivery_.html

Ehmann, L. C. (2009, June 11). Birthing and Relaxation: Not Mutually Exclusive. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from RealAge: http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=1edc3d6e-4fec-4b20-baca-795e48830daa&chunkiid=13499

Family Doctor Editorial Staff. (2000, August). Taking Care of You and Your Baby While You're Pregnant. Retrieved October 7, 2010, from Famliy Doctor: http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/pregnancy/basics/053.html

Hering, B. (2009, June 16). Possible Relief for Morning Sickness. Retrieved October 06, 2010, from Baby Center: http://blogs.babycenter.com/mom_stories/possible-relief-for-morning-sickness/

HHS. (2008, May 14). Are vitamins safe for me while I am pregnant? Retrieved October 6, 2010, from WebMD Answers: http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1175296/

Hoffman, M. (2008, October 7). Is sex during pregnancy safe? Retrieved October 6, 2010, from WebMD Answers: http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1182220/Is-sex-during-pregnancy-safe

Kellicker, P. (2010, March 24). The Truth About Sex During Pregnancy. Retrieved October 6, 2010, from Real Age: http://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetContent.aspx?token=1edc3d6e-4fec-4b20-baca-795e48830daa&chunkiid=43945

Nihira, M. A. (2009, December 19). What should and shouldn't I eat while I'm pregnant? Retrieved October 6, 2010, from WebMD Answers: http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1180098/What-should-and-shouldn-t-I-eat

PharmD, H. F. (2010, August 19). What are the best vitamins for a pregnant woman? Retrieved October 6, 2010, from WebMD Answers: http://answers.webmd.com/answers/1192903/What-are-the-best-vitamins-for

Pillarella, D. (n.d.). Will I ever be able to wear my pre-pregnancy clothes again? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/404_will-i-ever-be-able-to-wear-my-pre-pregnancy-clothes-again_11818.bc

The Baby Center Medical Advisory Board. (2009, November). Seven principles of eating well during pregnancy. Retrieved October 6, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/0_seven-principles-of-eating-well-during-pregnancy_3561.bc

Turk, R. (2007, September 28). Is it safe to sleep on my back during pregnancy? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from BabyCenter: http://www.babycenter.com/406_is-it-safe-to-sleep-on-my-back-during-pregnancy_1245287.bc

YOU Docs. (n.d.). How can I fall asleep, and stay asleep, in a position that's safe for baby? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from RealAge: http://www.realage.com/the-you-docs/you-having-a-baby/how-to-sleep-when-pregnant

YOU Docs. (n.d.). Q: Is there anything I can do to relieve my morning sickness? Retrieved October 6, 2010, from Real Age: http://www.realage.com/the-you-docs/you-having-a-baby/nausea-and-pregnancy

YOU Docs. (n.d.). Should I be reading or talking to my baby while he's still in my belly? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from RealAge: http://www.realage.com/the-you-docs/you-having-a-baby/talking-to-baby-in-womb

YOU Docs. (n.d.). Will my body ever be the same again? Retrieved October 7, 2010, from RealAge: http://www.realage.com/the-you-docs/you-having-a-baby/post-pregnancy-body-changes

The Infamous "Talk"

After coming home from school, Lily puts her backpack down in a daze. All she could think about was how that cute guy, Chris, from her chemistry class asked her out on a date. She finally asked her mother if it was okay for her to go on a date with Chris tomorrow night. Lily's mother sat her down at the dinner table and began to have a heart-to-heart. Lily's mother started to have the "talk." She explained to Lily the importance of abstinence and of contraception. She encouraged her daughter to take contraceptive measures if she intended to have a sexual relationship with Chris. Lily's mother spoke of all the sexually-transmitted diseases there are in the world and how cautious she should be. She also explained how Chris should not force Lily into doing anything she did not want to do. After Lily's mother was done having the "talk," Lily began to ask questions of her own. She questioned her mother about the right way to explain to Chris in not participating in any sexual actions. Lily's mother explained that Lily should be firm and not waver. She also explained that at the time, Lily's body might be yearning for Chris' touch, but keep in mind that she should not do anything if she does not feel comfortable. Lily also asked her mother what type of contraceptive should be used when the time comes. Her mother replied saying that she could do her own personal research online using websites such as Planned Parenthood (http://www.plannedparenthood.org/teen-talk/) or the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy (http://www.thenationalcampaign.org/) or Sex Etc.(http://www.sexetc.org/). She also explained how she will be there whenever Lily needed anything or had any more questions as the two hugged. Lily thanked her mother for listening to her and for explaining things to her even if it was awkward for her.

Health Self Assessment

Initially while I was doing the Self Assessment, I was thinking man I am definitely not doing any preventive practices; but, after going through the entire self - assessment, I realized that I am practicing preventive measures. The three main preventive practices that I want to improve on is my diet, my physical activity and my sleeping pattern. A few weeks ago I had to attend a nutrition training required for work (I work as a child care provider) One thing we've been trying to get the kids to implement is how to eat healthier and to get moderate-vigorous excercise at least three times a week. Because of this, I know I have been wanting to change my eating habits as a way to benefit myself as well as be a role model for the children. I have even become more concientious of how many fruits and vegetables I have been getting per day. There was a point in time where I used to be able to run three miles a day just so I can stay in shape and have energy. It has come to a point now where I get winded walking up three flights of stairs. In the recent future, I want to be able to get up in the early morning and go jogging or work out in the evenings after work and take a run. Hopefully, by the end of this year I want  be able to run a mile without getting extremely tired. Being in college has taken a toll on my sleeping patterns. I rarely get my full nine hrs of sleep that I should be getting. I always tend to wake up early or sleep late and then when the weekends come around, I get to busy to sleep more than five hours. If I plan on improving my health, I want to be able to do it appropriately. I want to have a goal of sleeping early and getting at least six hours of sleep every night. I hope with these changes that I will begin to have more energy, I will feel better about my health and I will be more positive with everything I do.

I already practice the other preventive measures that were listed on the self-assessement. I personally believe that smoking is an unattractive and unhealthy habit, so I do not smoke. When I drink, I make sure I drink in moderation. I usually don't drink more than one drink when I am with friends or otherwise. I make sure that I use a condom whenever I engage in sexual activity.  I believe I know how to relax very well. I can always be seen hanging out with friends and socializing. Whenever  I am in the car, I make sure that I wear my seat belt and I never allow anyone to go home if they were under the influence. My personality does not make me a violent person, so I tend to make sure I do not solve my conflicts with violence or anger. I usually talk it out. Everytime I go in to the doctor's office, the nurse is always teaching me about what I would need to change about my lifestyle and what I should continue to do. She always ends up sending me home with pamphlets about nutrition and exercise.

After completing the entire self-assessment, I  realized that I do practice more positive preventive measures, but I can do alot more to improve my health.

Women's Health Care in the United States

So I was on http://www.ahrq.gov/research/womenix.htm reading an article called "Women's Health Care in the United States" (go figure). I was actually quite stunned about what I was reading. This article is basically a fact sheet of everything that has to do with Women's health care in the US and it is broken down into subcategories based on comparisons in gender, race, and socioeconomic status (SES). A trend that I noticed was that when it comes to recieving health care, women recieved better health care than men, but women recieved poor quality health care. I also noticed that it was the minorities, such as Blacks and Hispanics, that had the worst quality of care and the most likely to get a certain illness. When it came down to the socioeconomic status, it was obvious that the poorer you were, the worse quality of care you recieved (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2005). It has been more and more obvious that money tends to buy you better healthcare and I believe that that idea of it sucks. I don't want to see good quality health care only being available to those who have money. People of lower socioeconomic status have needs; they are people who have lives, just like the rest of the world. Why is it that they can't recieve good quality health care? I understand that health care systems are expensive and the equipment and the staff would all have to be paid for, but I'm sure somewhere in the world there is someone who can open up a community clinic where everything would be easily accessible and readily available to those of lower socioeconomic status.

This factsheet also positively goes on to say, "The overall quality of health care for women in the United States is improving slowly." Even if it is a slow progress, it is a great improvement. More women are now being treated and more women are now seeking the help that they need. Its ridiculous to think about how healthcare for women in the past must have been. Women had nothing.  I was also saddened to read that in reference to quality and access of healthcare that, "In all years, mothers with less than a high school education and high school graduates had lower rates compared with mothers with at least some college education" There are many factors that could keep our women from recieving an education, such as teen mothers. For these teen mothers, without education, there is a slim-to-none chance of them recieving a job. Without a job and further education and training, it is hard for them to climb the social economic ladder, which makes it hard to make money. And without money, it is hard to pay for healthcare. It is like a vicious never-ending cycle! If only there was a solution to this problem.

However, I'm not exactly sure as to what has changed in this 21st century, but I'm all for it! In this past decade alone, we have had a woman run for president. We have had the first African-American first lady, who with her unique, classy and elegant style and firm faith has encouraged plenty of women around the world.


Sources:
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. (2005, May). Women's Health Care in the United States . Retrieved September 9, 2010, from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: http://www.ahrq.gov/qual/nhqrwomen/nhqrwomen.htm