bone mineral density (BMD) test

Alternative Names

BMD test; Bone density test

Definition

A bone mineral density (BMD) test can help your health care provider confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis. The test can help in several ways:

• BMD testing is one of the most accurate ways to assess your bone health.
• When repeated over time, it can be used to monitor your rate of bone loss.
• It can detect osteoporosis at its earliest stage, so treatment can begin sooner.
• If you are being treated for osteoporosis, BMD testing can help your health care provider monitor your response to the treatment.

How the test is performed

Several different kinds of machines can do BMD testing. The most common methods use low-dose X-rays (about one-tenth the radiation dose of a chest X-ray). While you are lying in on a cushioned table, a scanner passes over your body. Typically, the machine takes X-rays of your lower spine and hip. In most cases you won't need to undress.

There are portable machines that just measure the bone density in your wrist or heel, and some experts believe these are useful preliminary screening tools that can help identify people who may have osteoporosis. However, your bone density can differ from site to site within your body, so these machines may not give a true picture of your risk of a hip fracture.

How to prepare for the test

Remove any jewelry before the BMD test. Inform your health care provider if you may be pregnant.

How the test will feel

The scan is painless, although you will need to remain still during the test.

Why the test is performed

Your health care provider may request a BMD test to confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Normal Values

The results of your test are usually reported as a "T score" and "Z score."

• The T score compares your bone density with that of healthy young women.
• The Z score compares your bone density with that of other people of your age, gender, and race.

In either score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the standard. The more negative the number, the thinner your bones. A T score is within the normal range if it is a positive number, or at least no more negative than -1.0. (For example, -0.5 is within the normal range, although it is getting borderline.)

Your doctor will help you understand the results.

What abnormal results mean

• A T score from -1 to -2.5 indicates the beginning of bone loss (osteopenia).
• A T score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.

What the risks are

BMD testing involves exposure to a low level of radiation. Most experts feel that the risk is very low compared with the benefits of identifying osteoporosis before you break a bone.

Special considerations

Regular BMD testing can be important in combating osteoporosis in certain people. The overall cost-benefit value of screening everyone, including those who are not at high risk, is still a matter of debate. Many insurance companies today will pay for bone density testing under certain circumstances.

Most experts agree women over age 65 years are at highest risk and should have bone density tests.

Woman under 65 with additional risk factors for osteoporosis may also be screened.

Simple bone density scans using portable machines may be available as part of health fairs or screenings. These portable scanners may check the density of your wrist or heel. However, keep in mind that hip and spine scans are more reliable.

Iced tea

Iced tea is America’s favorite summer sidekick. But did you know tea does more for your body than delight your taste buds and quench your thirst?


Tea packs a mighty punch when it comes to your health. Joe Simrany, president of the Tea Association of America, Inc., says, “Tea helps inhibit chronic disease such as cardiovascular disease, and certain forms of cancer. It can also increase metabolism and contribute to dental health and increased bone mass.”

That’s pretty good news for avid iced tea fans!

Defending you against disease
Here’s how it works. Black tea, the main ingredient in traditional iced tea, contains antioxidants called flavonoids. These are the same antioxidants that are found in fruits and vegetables and help prevent free radical damage. Research tells us these antioxidants may help prevent cancer, heart disease, premature aging, and more.

Iced tea contains about 190 mg of flavonoids per serving. Tea will go a long way toward boosting your antioxidant intake. (But this doesn’t mean you can skimp on your fruits and veggies—they provide fiber and many vital nutrients!)

A delicious way to drink more water
Tea is also a delicious way to make sure you drink your six to eight glasses of water a day. Drinking part of that requirement as iced tea can help maintain your body’s fluid balance and keep your body cool, cushion your joints, and transport nutrients throughout your body. Remember, getting enough fluids is especially important as the weather heats up.

No calories, no fat…naturally
Iced tea naturally contains no calories, fat, or sodium, when you drink it without adding extra ingredients. It’s a great-tasting, healthy alternative to soda and other sugary drinks.

Be sure to always keep a pitcher full of iced tea in your fridge. Serve it at your family gatherings. Even pour some in a bottle and take it with you when you’re out and about—for a refreshing pick-me-up that’s good for you.

Baby Back Ribs with Java Jerk Sauce

Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 cup orange juice 1/2 cup brewed coffee 1/2 cup brown sugar ½ cup ketchup 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup lime juice 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce 2 tablespoons mango chutney 1/4 cup molasses 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves ½ can of beer 3 racks baby back pork ribs, 2-3 pounds each

Directions: To prepare sauce, combine all ingredients in a saucepan set to medium heat. Stir with a whisk to thoroughly incorporate. Just as mixture starts to simmer, turn stovetop to low and simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring often to keep the sugars from scorching on the bottom of the pan. Remove half of the jerk sauce and set aside. Prepare grill to medium-high heat. Place ribs on grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until browned on both sides. Baste with sauce and cooked until desired doneness. Cut into individual ribs and pass reserved sauce.

Childhood Depression

The Myth of a Happy Childhood

Do you ever find yourself wishing you could recapture the carefree days of childhood? Kids have absolutely nothing to worry about, do they? No bills to pay, bosses to answer to, or obligations to keep. They have none of the everyday stresses that we adults have. But, is childhood really a time of bliss? The truth is, childhood is far from being without stress.

Children can be faced with many difficulties that they are ill-equipped to handle emotionally: divorce, poverty, learning disabilities, abuse, and neglect just to name a few. Children by nature feel powerless against these situations and the effects can remain with them well into adulthood.

But, what if your child does not fall into any of these categories? Does this guarantee a child free from depression? The answer is no. A very important factor in childhood depression is that it may be a biologically based illness. Children with an inherited tendency for depression will be highly susceptible to the strains caused by the need for peer acceptance. Because it is caused by an imbalance in brain chemistry, it may appear to you that there is nothing so severely wrong in your child's life that would merit being depressed. Just as with adult depression, a child's perception of the world may be distorted. He may feel that he is unlovable, "stupid", or "bad" even though these things simply are not true.

Further complicating matters is the fact that young children do not have labels for these feelings and cannot vocalize what it is that's happening to them. They may not even realize that they are not normal feelings. To a child, it may seem that this is "just the way life is".

What can you as a parent, teacher, or other concerned adult do to help? The most important step is recognition of the problem.

Recognition

In order to recognize when a child is depressed, it is important to become aware of the symptoms and the signs to look for. Because children are not as articulate as adults in expressing their emotions, it is unlikely that they will come to us and say "I'm depressed" as an adult might do. In fact, they may not even realize themselves that something is out of the ordinary. Children live in a world controlled by adults and can easily feel powerless over what is happening to them. This puts the responsibility upon us as adults to look for signs of trouble and help children cope.

The warning signs of depression fall basically into four different categories: emotional signs, cognitive signs (those involving thinking), physical complaints, and behavioral changes. Not every child who is depressed experiences every symptom.

Depending upon the degree of depression, they may experience a few symptoms or many. Also, severity of each symptom may vary.

Emotional Signs

Typical moods or emotions experienced by children suffering from depression include:

Sadness - The child may feel despondent and hopeless. They may cry easily. Some children will hide their tears by becoming withdrawn.

Loss of pleasure or interest - A child who has always enjoyed playing sports, for example, may suddenly decide to not try out for the team this year. They may complain of feeling "bored" or reject an offer to participate in an activity, which they've always enjoyed in the past.

Anxiety - The child may become anxious, tense, and panicky. The source of their anxiety may well give you a clue to what's causing their depression.

Turmoil - The child may feel worried and irritable. They may brood or lash out in anger as a result of the distress they are feeling.

Cognitive Signs

A depressive mood can bring on negative, self-defeating thoughts. These skewed thought processes may help perpetuate the problem because they make the child resistant to words of encouragement or advice. Once the depression lifts, the child will be much more receptive to help. The signs to look for are:

Difficulty organizing thoughts - People with depression often have problems concentrating or remembering. In children, this may be evidenced by problems in school or an inability to complete tasks.

Negative view - People with depression may become pessimistic, perceiving themselves, their life, and their world in a very negative light.

Worthlessness and guilt - Depressed children may obsess over their perceived faults and failures, feel tremendous guilt, and declare themselves worthless.

Helplessness and hopelessness - Depressed children often believe that there is nothing they can do to relieve their feelings of depression. In particular, a child with dysthymia may perceive that this is "just the way it is" because this is their only experience.

Feelings of isolation - A child who has been picked on frequently may become very sensitive to slights from his peers.

Suicidal Thoughts - Thoughts of death are not limited to adults. Children may also wish that they were dead and express these thoughts.

Physical Signs

Depression is not just an illness of the mind. It causes changes in us physically as well.

Changes in appetite or weight - Many people with depression find that their appetite either decreases or increases. Children who usually have a healthy appetite may suddenly lose interest in eating. Children may also respond in the opposite way, but eating too much to self-medicate their feelings.

Sleep disturbances - Children with depression may have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep once they do. They may wake too early or oversleep. They may have trouble staying awake during the day at school.

Sluggishness -Children with depression often talk, react, and walk slower. They may be less active and playful than usual.

Agitation - Depressed children may show signs of agitation by fidgeting or not being able to sit still.

Behavioral Signs

These signs will be the most obvious and easy for your detect.

Avoidance and withdrawal - Children with depression may avoid everyday or enjoyable activities and responsibilities. They may withdraw from friends and family. The bedroom can become a favorite place to escape and find solitude.

Clinging and demanding - The depressed child may become more dependent on some relationships and behave with an exaggerated sense of insecurity.

Activities in excess - A depressed child may appear to be out of control in regard to certain activities. He or she may spend long hours playing a video game or overeat.

Restlessness - The restlessness brought on by depression may lead to such behaviors as fidgeting, acting up in class, or reckless behavior

Self-Harm - Depressed individuals may cause themselves physical pain or take excessive risks. Self-injury is one example of such behavior.

Men are a mystery

Facts About Men

Men are a mystery. The following are facts about men that could prove entertaining. Or perhaps not. First fact: Men sometimes contradict themselves.

Men like to barbecue. Men will cook if danger is involved.

Men like to barbecue. Men will cook if danger is involved.

Men who have pierced ears are better prepared for marriage. They've experienced pain and bought jewelry.

Be careful of men who are bald and rich. The arrogance of "rich" usually cancels out the nice of "bald."

Marrying a divorced man is ecologically responsible. In a world where there are more women than men, it pays to recycle.

If it's attention you want, don't get involved with a man during play-off season.

Men like phones with lots of buttons. It makes them feel important.

Men love to be the first to read the newspaper in the morning. Not being the first is upsetting to their psyches.

All men look nerdy in black socks and sandals.

The way a man looks at himself in a mirror will tell you if he can ever care about anyone else.

Don't try to teach men how to do anything in public. They can learn in private, but in public they have to know.

All men are afraid of eyelash curlers.

A good place to meet a man is at the dry cleaner. These men usually have jobs and bathe.

All men hate to hear, "We need to talk about our relationship."

Men are brave enough to go to war, but they are not brave enough to get a bikini wax.

All men think that they're nice guys. Some of them are not.

Men have an easier time buying bathing suits. Women have two types, depressing and more depressing. Men have two types, nerdy and not nerdy.

Not one man in a beer commercial has a beer belly.

If a man prepares dinner for you and the salad contains three or more types of lettuce, he is serious.

Not one man in a beer commercial has a beer belly.

Men own basketball teams. Every year cheerleaders' outfits get tighter and briefer, and players' shorts get baggier and longer.

No man is charming all of the time. Even Cary Grant is on record saying he wished he could be Cary Grant.

When four or more men get together, they talk about sports. (When four or more women get together, they talk about men.)

Men have higher body temperatures than women. Men are like portable heaters that snore.

Most men hate to shop. That's why the men's department is usually on the first floor of a department store, two inches from the door.

Men are less sentimental than women. No man has ever seen the movie "The Way We Were" twice, voluntarily.

Impulse buying is not macho. Men rarely call the Home Shopping Network.

Men who listen to classical music tend not to spit.

Men would like monogamy better if it sounded less like monotony.

Men don't feel the urge to get married as quickly as women do because their clothes all button and zip in the front. Women's dresses usually button and zip in the back. Women need men emotionally and sexually, but they also need men to help us get dressed.

Men are self-confident because they grow up identifying with superheroes. Women have bad self-images because they grow up identifying with Barbie.

When a woman tries on clothing from her closet that feels tight, she will assume she has gained weight. When a man tries something from his closet that feels tight, he will assume the clothing has shrunk.

Male menopause is a lot more fun than female menopause. With female menopause, you gain weight and get hot flashes. With male menopause, you get to date young girls and drive motorcycles.

Men forget everything. Women remember everything. That's why men need instant replays in sports. They've already forgotten what happened.

Men would like monogamy better if it sounded less like monotony.

All men would still really like to own a train set.

Fifty Mistakes Men Make When Having Sex

Just in case you thought the route to sexual bliss was straightforward, here's a list of things to avoid. They're all pretty much guaranteed passion killers for a woman - and if your check list contains more than ten of these, you've got some serious work to do on your sexual etiquette!

1 Going straight for the naughty bits

You've got to be sensitive to the fact that a woman is more likely to be irritated than aroused when a man dives for her breasts and vulva after a few minutes' perfunctory kissing. While you might get to feel the goods, you're not going to be invited back.

2 Not knowing how to kiss sensitively

Passionate or sensitive, firm or gentle, good kissing is an art form which lubricates the wheels of sex and gets everyone in the mood for more intimacy. Learn how to kiss, and do it well. That doesn't mean sticking your tongue in her mouth and wiggling it around like you're trying to floss her teeth.

3 Being too rough when you touch her erogenous zones

Men like a firmer touch than women, especially when it comes to our penises. So if you touch her clitoris with as much force as you apply to your penis when you masturbate, she's most likely to howl with pain - and then kick you out of bed. Remember: the clitoris has twice as many nerve endings as the penis, in a much smaller area. Treat it with respect. It's the only organ in the human body that has no function other than to provide pleasure.

4 Not stroking and caressing her

A woman's second biggest sex organ is her skin. (The first is her mind.) You can make your touch on any part of her body into a sexy caress, but you have to focus on what you're doing and put some sexual energy into your fingers while you caress her. That means not thinking about the baseball game while you're giving her a sensuous massage.

5 Locking onto her nipples like a suckling child

Yes, we know it's fun for you. To her it just feels like she's got a teething infant hanging off her breast. Lick and kiss around her whole breast before you go for the nipple, then flick your tongue gently across the nipple and around the areolae. If she likes what you're doing, you'll know by her moans of pleasure.

6 Biting on her earlobe because you think it's sexy

She may not agree with you. In which case it will just be irritating for her, not a prelude to her turning into the sex goddess you thought you were summoning up.

7 Leaving a hickey on her neck like a teenage badge of honor

If you're over sixteen, this is a no-no. If you need to know why, you're obviously under sixteen.

8 Not shaving before sex

When you're in the throes of passion, having your beard stubble brushing back and forth across her face isn't so sexy, but at least it'll produce a red rash she can remember you by.

9 Not washing your pits and bits before you have sex

If there's one thing that turns women off, it's a lover whose personal hygiene isn't up to scratch. Even though men have a higher smell threshold than women, keeping yourself clean - especially in the more intimate corners of your anatomy (like under your foreskin) - is not just a matter of courtesy, it's a ticket back to the bedroom.

10 Forgetting she has a sensuous body waiting to be stroked

Pretty much the same point we already made up above, but worth remembering: touch doesn't just have to be in the bedroom, a prelude to sex. In fact, if you touch her a lot in a loving way during the day, she'll be ready to melt into your arms by bedtime.

11 Trying to get your fingers in her underwear before she's ready

This is the mark of a gauche teenage lover who wants to get to fourth base just so he feels more accomplished as a lover. Take your time, let things evolve naturally, and apply a little sensuous touch on the fabric covering her vulva before you dive under the elastic. The hint of what's to come is often more erotic than diving straight in there.

12 Dropping the condom on the floor

Must we say why this isn't the most popular move post sex? Dispose of the condom tidily in a tissue - put it in the bin rather than down the toilet, or it's likely to float there for some time to come as a reminder of your sexual encounter.

13 Going straight for the clitoris during oral sex or masturbation

Like we said above, most women just find this irritating - and, if you press too hard, bloody uncomfortable too. Your first caresses should be on her labia, the lips of her vulva, then as she gets more aroused, you can work nearer the clitoris itself. But even when she's aroused a soft touch along the sides of her clitoris may be more acceptable for her than any pressure on the head of her clitoris.

14 Breaking off just as she's getting to the point where she wants you to keep going at all costs

Women often get so lost in their sexual arousal that they forget to give feedback. In reality, the fact that she's lying there quietly may actually mean she loves what you're doing; if so, you should feel her pressing her vulva against your mouth or fingers, or shifting like she wants more touch, rather than giving you a sense that she'd rather be out shopping.

15 Undressing her clumsily

Listen up guys: you don't have to be able to take her bra off with one hand, behind her back, while kissing her. In fact, in my experience, it's better if you don't try. She probably puts it on by fastening it first and pulling it over her head anyway. Let her take off the garments you don't understand, and whenever you do lend a helping hand, undress her gently and sensuously rather than pulling at her clothes like you're ripping the paper off a birthday present.

16 Undressing yourself inelegantly - which includes taking your socks off after your underwear

Nothing is more comical (or pathetic) to a woman than a man in his socks and pants. Except possibly a naked man wearing socks. If you don't understand why, just accept that it is so.

17 Expecting her to shave for you

You might like the baby smooth look around her vulva, but she's more likely to see this as a prickly route to itchy stubble. Ask her nicely if you'd like her to go smooth. If she says "no", accept that graciously.

18 Sticking a finger up her vagina before she's ready, willing and able

In general, women do like to be penetrated just as much as men like to penetrate, which, considering how much men like to stick things up there, is just as well. However, she'll only want you to do this when the time is right - i.e. when she's aroused enough to enjoy it. If you're giving her clitoris attention, there'll be a point where she might like to have a finger or two inside her. If so, be gentle, and start with one finger on her G-spot. Make sure she enjoys this before you put another one up there. Two fingers on her G-spot is probably as much as she will want. And be just as firm with your touch as she finds pleasurable. If you don't know what the G-spot is, then do some Google-ing before you get into bed.

19 Entering her without asking her first

What is it with men and these dark, wet places? Just keep in mind that she decides how far sex goes, and if she doesn't want to enjoy intercourse then don't press the point. This applies especially to any strategy that involves nudging your penis into position and then pressing forward without her consent, verbal or otherwise! Having said that, you don't always need to ask "May I enter you?" though it can be a romantic and sexy thing to do if you're looking deep into her eyes. Needless to say, that's most likely to happen in the man on top position, which, by the way, remains everyone's most popular position for sex.

20 Pecking away around her vagina with your penis if you can't find the way in

This is, by all accounts, many women's least desired sexual moment. If for any reason you can't get in, don't pretend you're in control and keep trying. Simply ask her to guide you in with her hand. That way you'll save a lot of embarrassment, not to mention time.

20 Pumping away without regard for her pleasure

When you've achieved your most desired objective, and your penis is inside her, you'll want to show a certain consideration for her pleasure. She may want hard and fast thrusting, but it's best to start slow and shallow. While you're making love, she'll most appreciate your efforts if you're masculine and strong - which is to say, if you act like you know what you're doing, you're considerate and gentle at first, and work up to firm and strong thrusts if she likes them.

21 Expecting her to make love bottom up

Yes, we all enjoy rear entry. But she may be more self-conscious of her butt, she may feel like a sex object, and she may not like the rather impersonal nature of this position. If you really want to do it, and you explain to her why you like it so much (i.e. "It's incredibly exciting to see your gorgeous bottom as we make love", rather than "I get so turned on fucking from behind") she'll probably co-operate from time to time, even if it's only on your birthday and hers.

22 Thrusting too hard

If you happen to be well-endowed, or she has a short vagina, and you thrust too hard, you may end up banging her cervix. This can make her shriek, though sadly not with sexual pleasure.

22 Coming before she's got excited or begun to enjoy sex

There aren't many men who can last long enough to really satisfy a woman who enjoys vaginal intercourse and G-spot stimulation. If you can't be bothered learning how to be a long lasting lover, then at least have the decency to keep going for a few minutes so she gets some pleasure. This isn't hard, and there are plenty of ways you can learn to extend intercourse and not come so quickly. Do some research on Google for "end premature ejaculation". See also number 26.

23 Not coming at all - or losing your erection when you put the condom on

If you're one of that rarer breed of men who has trouble coming during intercourse, may we respectfully suggest you see a sexual therapist? You can then deal with this problem, learn to come more quickly, and avoid giving her a numb vagina and an intimate knowledge of the exact shade of color you painted your bedroom ceiling. If you're one of the many men who lose their erection when the condom comes out of its foil wrapper and onto the head of your penis, it's back to Google for a search on, surprisingly enough, "losing erection when putting on a condom".

24 Asking her how it was for her

This is not the mark of a confident lover, so if you really want some feedback, phrase it thus: "Did you prefer it when I did X or Y?"

25 Not going down on her when she wants oral pleasure

Since oral sex on a woman is so pleasurable for most men, this seems unlikely. But if it's a question of the smell or taste being a bit much for you, try taking a shower or bath together before sex. If you just want her to fellate you and you simply can't be bothered to reciprocate with cunnilingus, then reading these tips isn't going to help you much anyway.

26 Failing to give her pleasure if you come quickly

Remember the motto: "Women come first!" As a man, you're probably going to lose interest in sex once you've ejaculated - at least for a while. In which case, make sure she comes through oral sex or masturbation before you enter her. That way, she gets her pleasure and so do you. (With the added bonus that it doesn't matter so much if you shoot quite quickly.) Just to enter her, thrust a few times, come, roll over and forget about her is the mark of a boorish lover, and you wouldn't want to be one of those, now would you?

27 Trying to force her head towards your cock

Let's face it: she's either willing to give your oral sex or she's not. Trying to persuade her to get her lips around your glans by edging her head towards your groin is a bit crass, to say the least. If she doesn't seem to be heading that way as things hot up, just ask her: "There's something you could do that'd give me so much pleasure....."

28 Trying to force her head further down on her cock when she's giving you oral

Yes, once again we know it feels good, but you have to be considerate about it. She's not likely to be a deep throat expert, and there's no reason why she should be, since most of the pleasure of oral sex comes from the action of her tongue on your glans. Keep your hands away from her head unless it's to gently stroke her hair, and you won't feel the temptation to encourage her to go deeper.

29 Holding her head when she goes down on you

Pretty similar to number 28, but this time, holding her head and moving it up and down on your penis is the no-no. If you think that's acceptable sexual etiquette you've been watching too many of the wrong kind of films.

30 Coming in her mouth without asking her if it's OK

The taste of semen is very much an acquired taste; unfortunately it's one that few woman ever acquire. If she doesn't like it, ask her to keep going until the last minute, then tell her when you're going to come so she can move back and finish the job with a well-lubed hand. You'll get just as much pleasure, and she won't have to gag or spit your semen out. By the way, accidentally forgetting to tell her you're going to come is not permitted.

31 Thinking that a porno movie has anything to do with real life

Porn is not good for men's egos. Real life isn't like that, OK?

32 Switching on a hard core porn film without asking whether that's OK with her

Even if you find it arousing, she's not likely to, for the simple reason that much of the porn available today is fairly abusive to women. Ask her first, and if you want to share the erotic thrill of watching people have sex, get hold of some romantic sex movies that will appeal to her emotions as well as her sex drive.

33 Apologizing for the size of your penis

Just in case you ever feel inclined to apologize for not matching up to the guys in the wrong kind of movies, just remember: 98% of women would rather have a sensitive lover than one with a big penis. If you're with one of the other two percent, you need to find a new lover.

34 Answering honestly when she asks you what your last lover was like

Guys, when a woman asks you if her butt is too big, do you tell her the truth? Enough said. Your current lover is always the most gorgeous, sexy and desirable woman around. Even if she doesn't really believe it, that's what she wants to hear.

35 Asking her if she'd mind if her girlfriend joined you

Threesomes can be exciting, but they usually just cause jealousy and upset when one partner unexpectedly finds they don't want their partner making out with another person. Needless to say, this usually happens to the woman. So be sure, be very sure, you know what you're doing before you try this one.

36 Making her do all the work

Changing positions is all very well, but asking her to ride you each time you have sex seems a bit one sided. Vary the positions, have fun, and take equal shares of the work. Don't just settle for one favorite position and flog it to death.

37 Trying to slip it in the back door by "accident"

Anal sex is something that a lot fewer couples have tried than you'd believe from what you read on the internet or see in porn. It's something you might like to try, but you both have to want to do it. She's not likely to respond with warmth if you keep pretending you're poking her anus by accident. And she won't believe you if you tell her you just didn't want to ask for directions, even if that's how you are when you're driving around lost, looking for somewhere.

38 Photographing or videoing your lovemaking

Unfortunately, as many jilted lovers can testify, taking pictures while you enjoy sex is putting power in the hands of the person who has the pictures. A good compromise is to link your video camera direct to your TV without recording the images. That way you can have the erotic thrill of seeing yourself during sex without having to worry about seeing yourself having sex on the internet in a few years' time.

39 Getting into the same old same old routine every time you have sex

Above almost everything else (except possibly being deeply in love), ringing the changes when you make love is the thing that will keep your sex life fresh and passionate. You'll be surprised just how exciting it can be when you try a new position. This is simply because every position puts a different pressure on the penis and vagina, or gives you a new perspective of your partner's body, or perhaps allows you to see entering your partner's body, and so on. Exactly which sex position feels most pleasurable will depend on the shape and size and shape of your penis and her vagina.

40 Not romancing her

Women love romance. Men put up with it, or do it to get sex. True or false? Probably true, but the romantic "chase" is deeply rewarding for most men (i.e. seducing and winning a woman makes us feel deeply fulfilled), and romance is an essential part of that process. If you're able to continue being romantic once you're an established couple, then you set yourself head and shoulders above the rest of your fellow men, and you stand that much greater chance of getting regular, passionate sex.

41 Slapping her buttocks without checking if she's into a little dominance play

No mater how exciting you may find the idea, don't land a heavy slap on her butt without trying a few lighter ones first and seeing how she reacts. If you do, you may get a slap in the face. Or a kick in the balls.

42 Trying to do sex by the book (or the film)

Don't copy the moves you see in porn films. They lack a certain something. Consideration for the woman, that would be.

43 Playing with her anus before she's excited enough to appreciate it

When you're masturbating her clitoris, and you have a finger inside her vagina, you may find that she responds well to a little anal play. If you have the position right, you can use your little finger to tickle gently at her anus as your forefinger plays with her G-spot. This may well add to her excitement - especially if she's on the verge of orgasm. If you try this before she's really excited and has stopped caring what's happening to her, you might just turn her off completely, so it might not be a bad idea to check it out with her in advance.

44 Deafening her by shouting in her ear when you come

An easy mistake to make, especially if you like to have sex in the man on top position lying close to your partner, and you like to let the world know when you come. Unfortunately she won't let you do it a second time, so bury your face in the pillow or something if you're prone to uncontrollable vocal ejaculations as well as physical ones.

45 Talking dirty without checking if she likes it

Generally a little consensual dirty talk between adults adds to the excitement. The first time your partner tells you to f*** her hot wet c*** you'll see what I mean. If that hasn't happened yet, and you'd like it to, encourage her to talk dirty to you when you're making love, and see what pops out of her mouth. You might be surprised. Remember legend has it that the quiet ones are often the most surprising in bed!

46 Lying on top of her without supporting your weight on your arms

Always remember: a gentleman takes his weight on his arms. Or elbows, or knees, or something.

47 Ejaculating on her without asking permission

Coming between her breasts or on her vulva or bottom can be incredibly exciting, but it's nice to ask her first. She may see it less a mark of your ejaculatory prowess or manhood than a mess to clear up.

48 Not controlling your ejaculation

Like we said before, a good lover makes the effort to make sure his partner is satisfied before he is.

49 Not spending some time with her in your arms after sex

A man who gets up after he's done the business and sets about his daily routine is probably top of most women's sexual dislikes. For her, this is a special time when a woman feels very close to her partner. She takes much longer to come down from sex than a man does, she wants to know she's loved and special, and she wants to feel adored by the man to whom she has just given her most precious asset. The very least you can do is to spend a half hour or so cuddling her while you relax after making love, even if you're not going to spend the night with her.

50 Not cleaning up after sex

And since sex inevitably involves a certain amount of fluids, keep the tissues handy for afterwards. If you feel like being chivalrous, offer her a warm towel to clean herself, especially if you aren't using condoms.

There you go! And if you've got any more sexual tips for sexual success, send them to us at the email address in the box below.

Menopause

Menopause



Some women love it. Others are depressed at even the thought of it. Menopause can cause a variety of reactions among all women. But whether you are looking forward to the end of your reproductive days or dreading it, it is important to know what to expect during this natural change in life.

If you think you may be starting menopause, you might want to try a self-test. This can give you insight as to what your hormone levels are like. Knowing whether or not you are menopausal is important since pregnancy is still possible.

There are many symptoms associated with menopause. These can include heart palpitations, memory loss, a change in your sex drive, incontinence, weight gain, vaginal dryness, mood swings and, perhaps the most well known symptom of menopause, hot flashes.

Aside from the physical effects of menopause, women may deal with a number of emotional issues as well. It is very normal for a woman to suffer from depression during her menopausal years. Women who experience early menopause may be especially prone to depression as their days of child bearing come to a much too early finish. If you're feeling down about menopause, then you may want to read Discover a New You, which can help you gain a new perspective on your menopausal years. Life After Menopause can also help you during this emotional time. And remember - women aren’t alone. Male Menopause outlines the little known fact that men also experience menopause as they age.

If you're a twin, then you may want to take a look at Twins and Menopause, which discusses recent study findings that suggest twins are more likely to experience premature menopause.

There a variety of treatments available to help menopausal women deal with all of their symtpoms. The most common form of treatment is hormone replacement therapy. However, because of some the associated side effects with HRT, this type of treatment is somewhat controversial. There are also a number of natural treatments, including soy, herbal remedies and changes to your diet that you can do yourself which may help to relieve your menopause symptoms. Reiki healing is another alternative treatment for menopause that is becoming increasingly popular.

Because of the changes in your body during menopause, a variety of health concerns and discomforts can become more prominent during this time. Heart disease and osteoporosis are two major health concerns that menopausal women are more at risk of developing. Menopausal women may also find that they experience vaginal and urinary tract infections more frequently, as well.

Gout can also be an issue for many menopausal women. The pain of gout can be very intense so it is important to seek appropriate gout treatment.

Menopause can cause a woman to look at herself a bit differently. You may find that you are noticing a few more laugh lines on your face and that you're just not comfortable with the natural increase in your weight. Whether you just want a subtle lift to your eyes or more extensive "body help," there are a number of inexpensive cosmetic procedures that can help you look your best.

Headache during sex

Headache during sex

Headaches during sex sound like a joke, but they are not funny to anyone who experiences them. Mysteriously, the headache may occur on some occasions but not on others, even with the same sexual technique. Sexual intercourse, or just masturbation, may bring on the pain.

Who gets headaches during sex?

• Sexual headaches can occur at all ages, but are most common in the early 20s and between 35–45 years of age (Neurology 2003;61:796–800).
• Men are three times more likely than women to have sexual headaches.
• Sexual headaches tend to occur during male, but not female, orgasm, and during female but not male masturbation.
• Sexual headaches are also more common in people who already suffer from migraine or tension headache.

Why the headache occurs

Sex can cause various sorts of headache.

• At the moment of orgasm there can be a sudden, severe pain. This is probably due to contraction of some of the small blood vessels in the brain, similar to migraine, and in fact half the people with this type of headache are also migraine sufferers. This pain generally lasts less than an hour, but may be gone in 10 minutes or linger for a few hours. It may be, throbbing, dull or stabbing.
• Less commonly, as sexual excitement increases, some people experience a dull, cramping, tight feeling at the back of the head. This is probably due to excessive contraction of the muscles of the neck.
• If you suffer from migraine, you may find that sex triggers a migraine attack. This headache will be identical to you ‘usual’ migraine. It occurs after sex, but not during sex.

Some people have only one of these headaches, but many people have a combination, so they experience a headache that increases with sexual excitement, and culminates in an explosive headache at orgasm.

Often, the headaches occur in bouts lasting a few weeks, and then disappear for a while.

Another cause of headache during sex is Viagra (sildenafil) – a pill for the treatment of impotence. Headache is one of its side-effects.

What you can do about it

• If you have severe headache at orgasm, you must see your doctor to check that there is no serious reason for the headache. Your doctor may then be able to prescribe a drug such as propranolol to prevent it.
• If you mainly have the dull headache at the back of the neck, make a deliberate effort to relax your neck muscles. This usually relieves it.
• Try intensifying your sexual excitement more gradually. This works in about 50% of men with sexual headache.
• Most people find they are more prone to these headaches when they are tired or under stress, attempting intercourse for the second or third time in close succession, or when they are using an uncomfortable or strenuous position. Try to avoid these situations!
• Sexual headaches are also more likely if you are in poor physical shape, overweight and with high blood pressure – so if you become fitter they may improve