Varicose Veins, Hemorrhoids, and Constipation

Varicose veins, which are usually found in the legs and genital area, occur when blood pools in veins enlarged by the hormones of pregnancy. Varicose veins often disappear after pregnancy, but you can lessen them by:

• avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time
• wearing loose-fitting clothing
• wearing support hose
• elevating your feet when you sit

Hemorrhoids — varicose veins in the rectum — frequently occur during pregnancy as well. Because your blood volume has increased and your uterus puts pressure on your pelvis, the veins in your rectum may enlarge into grape-like clusters. Hemorrhoids can be extremely painful, and they may bleed, itch, or sting, especially during or after a bowel movement. Coupled with constipation, another common pregnancy woe, hemorrhoids can make going to the bathroom downright unpleasant.
Constipation is common throughout pregnancy because pregnancy hormones slow the rate of food passing through the gastrointestinal tract. During the later stages of pregnancy, your uterus may push against your large intestine, making it difficult for waste to be eliminated. Constipation can contribute to hemorrhoids because straining may enlarge the veins of the rectum.
The best way to combat constipation and hemorrhoids is to prevent them. Eating a fiber-rich diet, drinking plenty of fluids daily, and exercising regularly can help keep bowel movements regular. Stool softeners (not laxatives) may also help. If you do have hemorrhoids, see your doctor for a cream or ointment that can shrink them. 
The link....is here...

Budget Time

Make your own wipes.....

Buying disposable wipes can be pretty pricey. There is just no need to spend the extra cash when making your own cloth wipes is this easy. Cloth wipes are gentle on your baby, easy to make, and they save you money! They can also be easily laundered with your cloth diapers. Just moisten them with plain water or a homemade wipe solution before use.

First, decide what kind of fabric you want to use. You can select from many different diapering fabrics like sherpa, hemp fleece, flannel, and velour. If you use a thicker fabric you can make one-layer wipes. You can use thinner fabrics for two-layer wipes. Get creative and choose some fun fabrics and prints.

Next you need to decide what size to make your wipes. You can make them any size you want, but traditionally, they are either 8×8 or 4×8. The smaller wipes fit in commercial wipes containers easily, and the larger wipes fit when folded in half.



Easy Homemade Wipes - One-layer wipes

Cut your fabric into squares or rectangles in the size you selected. You can leave the corners square or use a quarter to help round them.

Zig-zag or serge all the way around the edge.

Trim the threads and you’re done! Congrats! You made a cloth diaper wipe!

Tip: Use different thread colors or variegated thread for a more decorative look.



Moderately Easy Homemade Wipes - Two-layer wipes

Cut your fabric into squares or rectangles in the size you selected. You can leave the corners square or use a quarter to help round them.

Put layers together with "right" sides facing out on each side.

Line up the edges of the layers and pin all the way around the wipe.

Zig-zag or serge all the way around the edge

Trim the thread and your done!

Now that your a pro, get busy and completely replace disposable wipes forever!

Diaper Wipes Recipes

Basic Wipes Recipe

• 2 tablespoons baby shampoo or wash
• 2 tablespoons oil (almond, olive, jojoba, something natural )
• 2-4 cups hot water
• 2 tablespoons of aloe gel

Shake will in a jar or mix with whisk and then pour over wipes quickly before oil begins to seperate.



Aloe Vera Wipes Recipe

• 2 cups hot water
• 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel
• 2 drops Tea Tree Oil

Mix in a jar and then pour over wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge.



Anti-Fungal Baby Wipes

• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel
• 1 tablespoon Calendula Oil
• 2 drops Lavender or Chamomile Oil
• 2 drops Tea Tree Oil or Grape Seed Extract

Mix in a jar and then pour over wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge.

This one is great for discouraging yeast diaper rashes because the vinegar and essential oils discourage yeast growth.



Essentially Oils Recipe

• 3 T jojoba oil
• 1tsp tea tree oil
• 1tsp chamomile oil
• 1tsp lavender oil
• 1tsp gernanium oil
• 3/4 cup witch hazel

Mix in a spray bottle and spray wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge.

Us  |  Site Map  |  Media Room  |  Contact Us

Diaper Wipes Recipes Basic Wipes Recipe 2 tablespoons baby shampoo or wash 2 tablespoons oil (almond, olive, jojoba, something natural ) 2-4 cups hot water 2 tablespoons of aloe gel Shake will in a jar or mix with whisk and then pour over wipes quickly before oil begins to seperate. Aloe Vera Wipes Recipe 2 cups hot water 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel 2 drops Tea Tree Oil Mix in a jar and then pour over wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge. Anti-Fungal Baby Wipes 1 cup water 1 tablespoon vinegar 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel 1 tablespoon Calendula Oil 2 drops Lavender or Chamomile Oil 2 drops Tea Tree Oil or Grape Seed Extract Mix in a jar and then pour over wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge. This one is great for discouraging yeast diaper rashes because the vinegar and essential oils discourage yeast growth. Essentially Oils Recipe 3 T jojoba oil 1tsp tea tree oil 1tsp chamomile oil 1tsp lavender oil 1tsp gernanium oil 3/4 cup witch hazel Mix in a spray bottle and spray wipes. Store extra solution in the fridge. Don't want to make your own wipe solution? Try Northern Essence Foaming Baby Wipes Solution Disclaimer: Best efforts have been made in the preparation of this information. The Diaper Jungle has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information herein. However, the information contained within this site is given without warranty, either expressed or implied. The Diaper Jungle cannot be held liable for any damages caused directly or indirectly by the links and information on this site. In addition, changes and improvements to the information provided herein may be made at any time.

Copyright 2010 © Diaper Jungle. All rights reserved. Creative Commons License.

Cloth Vs. Disposable

Which is Best? The debate between which type of diaper is best is not an easy question to answer.  The reusable cloth diaper isn’t what it used to be.  Some cloth diapers now have double or triple layers and a multiply, fiber-filled strip, making them more absorbent than older styles. Some styles of cloth diapers now come with Velcro strips, eliminating the need for those large safety pins.  You can launder them at home or turn the job over to a diaper service. There are also various types and styles of disposable diapers, ranging from simple plastic covered paper diapers to the newest high-tech, cartoon covered, absorbent gel material filled, elastic legged disposables. With so many different choices, here are some things to take into consideration. Skin Care & Health concerns: The greatest concern for parents is to keep their baby’s skin dry, healthy and free from diaper rash.  Many things can cause diaper rash.  Prolonged wetness, lack of air circulation, soap, chemical and dye allergies, ammonia formed by bacteria that interacts with urine left sitting against the skin and the growth of microbes in the diaper area can all be irritating and cause rashes. Some concerns about disposable diapers have been about dyes, sodium polyacrylate (the super absorbent gel), and dioxin, which is a by-product of bleaching paper.  Sodium polyacrylate has been linked in the past to toxic shock syndrome, allergic reactions and is very harmful and potentially lethal to pets. Some dyes and dioxin according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is known to cause damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver. The (FDA) Food & Drug Administration has received reports that fragrances in disposables caused headaches, dizziness and rashes.  Problems reported to the Consumer Protection Agency regarding disposables include, chemical burns, noxious chemical and insecticide odors, babies pulling disposables apart and putting pieces of plastic into their noses and mouth, choking on tab papers and linings, plastic melting onto the skin, and ink staining the skin.  Plastic tabs can also tear skin if the diaper is not properly put on the baby. According to the Journal of Pediatrics, 54 % of one-month old babies using disposable diapers had rashes, 16 % having severe rashes.  A study done by a disposable diapers manufacturing company (we won’t name the company, but it's one of the largest manufacturers) shows that the incidence of diaper rash increased from 7.1% to 61% with the increased use of throwaway disposable diapers. Keep in mind that each baby is different; some parents will find their baby does perfectly fine with disposables while other parents may find their baby has some type of reaction to disposables. On the other hand cloth diapers can cause rashes by not being changed enough or properly cleaned and sanitized after becoming soiled. It is all a matter of personal preference, how your baby is reacting to a particular diaper and how you feel about other factors that come into play when deciding between cloth and disposables. The best way to prevent diaper rash is to change diapers, cloth or disposable, frequently.  While disposable diapers can hold large quantities of urine, this slight wetness is still against your baby’s skin, which can lead to rashes.  Cloth diapers should be changed every time your baby wets and then the diaper should be properly cleaned so all bacteria that may be in the cloth is killed. Cost: The cost of diapers is usually a great concern for most parents. Cost estimates* show that disposable diapers will run approximately $50 to $80 per month, using a diaper service will cost approximately $50 to $80 per month and laundering your own cloth diapers will cost slightly less at approximately $25 to $60 per month. The cost of disposable diapers varies due to the wide range of disposables on the market. Some name brands are very expensive, while some store branded disposables can be half the price of name brands. The cost of a diaper service mainly varies because of two factors. One factor being the amount of competition in your area (number of diaper service companies) and the second being the quality of diapers that you choose to use. The cost of laundering your own cloth diapers also varies because of many factors. One factor is the quality of the cloth diaper. Some parents will initially purchase very high quality cloth diapers which will last several years, while other parents might buy low quality diapers which only last for a short time. Another factor is the amount of laundering that is done for each load of dirty diapers. Some parents will only do a minimal amount of cleaning and sanitizing, while other parents will go through many steps to clean a load of dirty diapers. The more cleaning and sanitizing that is performed for each load of diapers the higher the cost. Other factors are your time to launder the diapers, cost of electricity, soap, water, and wear on your washing machine and dryer. In general, if you compare the cost of the fancier high tech disposable diapers to the cost of laundering your own cloth diapers, you will save money by using cloth diapers and laundering them yourself. If you decide to go with disposable diapers, here are a few tips on how to save money on disposable diapers. Environment: There has been much debate over the impact of disposable diapers and cloth diapers on the environment.  The pro-disposable diaper advocates say that the extra water used to wash cloth diapers is just as much of an abuse to the environment as the production and disposal of disposable diapers.  But taking into consideration the following estimates you will probably agree that disposable diapers are much more harmful to the environment than cloth diapers. It is estimated that roughly 5 million tons of untreated waste and a total of 2 billion tons of urine, feces, plastic and paper are added to landfills annually. It takes around 80,000 pounds of plastic and over 200,000 trees a year to manufacture the disposable diapers for American babies alone.  Although some disposables are said to be biodegradable; in order for these diapers to decompose, they must be exposed to air (oxygen) and sun.  Since this is highly unlikely, it can take several hundred years for the decomposition of disposables to take place, with some of the plastic material never decomposing. The untreated waste placed in landfills by dirty disposable diapers is also a possible danger to contaminating ground water.  Pro-disposable advocates say that cleaning cloth diapers uses more energy and contributes to the load on sanitary sewer systems and potential water pollution.  This view really makes no sense if you think about it.  The amount of water used per week to wash cloth diapers at home is about the same amount consumed by an adult flushing the toilet four or five times daily for a week.  Also, the greater amount of water and energy being used by diaper service companies to wash large amounts of cloth diapers multiple times; the per diaper impact on energy and water supplies is actually less than home washing. Finally, when flushing solids from a cloth diaper down the toilet and washing the diapers in a washing machine, the contaminated, dirty water from both toilet and washing machine go into the sewer systems where they are properly treated at wastewater plants.  This treated wastewater is much more environmentally friendly than dumping untreated soiled disposable diapers into a landfill. Convenience: With the newer style of cloth diapers that are on the market, disposable diapers are not much more convenient that cloth diapers.  The new multiple layer, Velcro fastening cloth diapers are just as easy to put on and take off as disposables.  Cloth diapers do not really need to be presoaked, or even rinsed out.  Flushable liners can be used with cloth diapers that let you lift the soiled liner off the cloth and flush the liner and the poop down the toilet.  If you don’t use liners, you can just dump the older baby’s solids down the toilet.  Cloth diapers usually only add about 2 extra loads of laundry a week to your schedule. Disposable diapers are more convenient when traveling because you can just throw the dirty diapers away without carrying them around for washing.  Disposables also require fewer changes because of the super absorbent materials; but taking into consideration the increased risks of rash and the extra impact on the environment, your decision should be made with much thought. Summary: The choice between the different types of diapers available is a matter of personal preference while taking into consideration all of the topics discussed above.  There really is no one best type of diaper that is good for every baby.  Deciding to use cloth or disposable diapers depends on your lifestyle, personal preference, finances and your concern for the environment.  Some parents combine the two, using cloth at home and disposable when they are going to be out all day.  The choice that is right for you and your baby may be different from the one that's right for your friend and her baby.  The best thing to do is know the advantages and disadvantages between cloth and disposable diapers, talk with your doctor, discuss it with your wife or husband and make a decision on what you think is best for your baby.  Whichever diaper you decide on now, you may find that your baby develops diaper rash more frequently later or has some type of allergic reaction.  This could be sensitivity to your choice.  If this occurs, don't fight it, just switch.  Try a different type of diaper, a different brand or go from cloth to paper or vice versa.  If your baby ever shows signs of having a reaction to a diaper you should always notify your doctor.  The reaction you might be seeing could just be a small rash, but it could be a more severe allergic reaction.  Your doctor can tell you exactly what it is and what you should do.

the link

Saving money and prefold diapers

Prefold Diapers ....... 1-5 $3.80 each, 6-11 $3.60 each, 12plus $3.40 each
Diaper Covers..... 3.99 each
Diaper Inserts..... 3.75 each

Videos... how to put on a pre-fold diaper
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avyFpZXh8Dg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZXzPHGgRNs&feature=related

Infant sized prefolds and Kissaluvs 0s will fit up to about 15 lbs. (usually 3-4 months). 

Most newborn babies are in the new born diapers for “a month” and no longer or slightly less.

• From 1 to 3 months: 5 to 12 diapers a day

• From 4 to 5 months: 4 to 10 diapers a day

• From 6 to 12 months: 3 to 8 diapers a day

• From 12 to 24 months: 2 to 4 diapers a day

Another way of look at diapers..... MotherEase
A Site... one sized Diapers..... thanksmama
 

One Sized Diaper called "Flip One Size Diaper Cover"  $13.95   8-35LBS. (go to link thanksmama)

NewBorn Basics

Newborn necessities checklist

A master list for moms and dads

Consumer Reports Video

BUYING ADVICE
	Newborn necessities

Here's a checklist of what you should have on hand before your baby arrives.

Tooling around
_____Car seat.
_____Stroller.

Beds and linens
_____Crib.
_____Crib mattress.
_____Bassinet/cradle (if you don't want to put your baby in a crib right away).
_____Two to three fitted crib sheets.
_____Four or more waffle-weave cotton receiving blankets for swaddling baby
_____Two mattress pads.
_____One to two waterproof liners (for crib or bassinet).

Diaper duty
_____Diapers. Disposables: One 40-count package of newborn (birth weight under 8 pounds) or of
size 1 (birth weight over 8 pounds). Cloth: Two to three dozen, plus six to 10 snap-on, waterproof
outer pants, and two to three sets of diaper pins, eight to 10 all-in-ones or diaper system covers;
two to three dozen diaper system inserts.
_____Diaper pail (with refills or bags as needed).
_____Diaper bag.

Dressing baby
_____Four sleeping outfits or one-piece sleepers with attached feet.
_____Six side-snap T-shirts.
_____Four to six one-piece undershirts that snap around the crotch.
_____A small baby cap (although the hospital will probably give you one).
_____Six pairs socks/booties.
_____Two to three soft, comfortable daytime outfits. Get only a few items in newborn size. Then, go for
clothing in the 6-month size--your baby will grow into it quickly. But don't buy baby sleepwear
that's too big--it's a safety hazard.
_____Cotton sweater or light jacket.

Summer babies
_____Brimmed hat.

Winter babies
_____Snowsuit with attached mittens or fold-over cuffs, or heavy bunting.
_____Heavy stroller blanket.
_____Warm knit hat.

Feeding time
If you're planning to breast-feed:
_____Three to five nursing bras.
_____A box of washable or disposable breast pads.
_____Breast pump if you expect to use one (manual or electric).
_____Four small baby bottles with newborn nipples for storing expressed breast milk.
_____Bottle-drying tree.
_____Bottle brush.
_____Insulated bottle holder for diaper bag (the hospital may give you one).
_____Three packs of cloth diapers or burp cloths.
If you're planning to bottle-feed:
_____Six 4- to 5-ounce bottles, plus nipples, rings, and a dishwasher basket if you use a dishwasher.

Bathing/Grooming
_____Plastic infant bathtub.
_____Three soft hooded towels.
_____Two packs of baby washcloths.
_____Baby body wash that doubles as shampoo.
_____Pair of blunt-tip scissors or baby-sized nail clippers.
_____Zinc-oxide-based diaper rash ointment.
_____Soft brush and comb.
_____Mild laundry detergent.

Medicine chest essentials
_____A pain-and-fever reducer recommended by your baby's doctor, such as Infant's Tylenol.
_____Cotton pads/swabs.
_____Nasal aspirator.
_____Digital rectal thermometer.
_____Rubbing alcohol.
_____Petroleum jelly.

Keeping baby happy
_____Pacifiers.

Extras: Nice but optional
_____Baby monitor.
_____Changing table.
_____A rocker or glider.
_____Sling or strap-on soft carrier.
_____Boppy, a doughnut-shape pillow designed to make holding baby during breastfeeding or
bottlefeeding easier.
_____Nursing coverup. Attaches at your neck and allows for private breastfeeding when you and your
baby are in public.
_____Infant swing.
_____Bouncy seat.
_____Night-light.

Sperm and Ferility

Sperm and Fertilization:

Of the many millions of sperm released each time a man ejaculates inside a woman, far fewer live long enough to make an attempt at fertilization. After unprotected intercourse, sperm can sustain its reproductive viability for several days – if it makes it up as far as the cervix.

If the sperm gets no further than the vaginal canal, it will survive for just a few hours, due to exposure to acidic vaginal secretions. However, a woman’s body has a built-in mechanism to give the reproductive process a boost: around the time of ovulation, a healthy female body produces a particular cervical mucous that creates a protective, hospitable environment for sperm; in fact, the consistency of the mucous even helps the sperm make its way (commonly referred to as “swimming”) through the vagina to the cervix. Under ideal circumstances, if healthy sperm get beyond the cervix into the uterus and up to the fallopian tubes, they can live as long as 5-7 days after ejaculation. On average, though, sperm live about 3-4 days once they’ve made it all the way to the fallopian tubes, where fertilization takes place. (A woman’s egg, on the other hand, is viable for only about one day once it leaves the ovary.)

Some Nutrition Facts Links

Rasberry, Raw
Kiwi Fruit, without skin medium, 76g
Banana, Medium sized
Sweet potato, cooked, baked in skin, without salt
Cassava (Yucca Root) Raw
Spinach, Raw
Lentils, cooked, boiled, no salt
Carrots, baby, raw

Fertility boosting foods

Whole grainsWhole grains such as oats, brown rice, whole wheat and quinoa are complex carbohydrates and so not only give you lots of energy for baby-making by releasing sugar into your blood slowly and evenly, but also contain an abundance of B and E vitamins that are essential for cellular reproduction, hormonal balance and the production of healthy ova and sperm.

Oily fish

Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 which play an important role in regulating reproductive functioning, improving blood flow and enhancing sperm quality and mobility. Flaxseed oil is a good EFA alternative for those who don't eat fish.

Full fat dairy

Research has found that women who eat at least one portion of full fat dairy a day are significantly less likely to suffer from fertility problems that those who consistently go for low fat or non dairy options. Dairy products are also a great source of calcium which is important in the development and maintenance of the nervous system, bones and blood.

Garlic

Although not typically known as a food for romance, garlic contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients and can easily be neutralised with parsley. It's a great source of the mineral selenium which is thought to enhance male fertility and help prevent the chromosome breakage that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system.

Lean red meat

Lean red meat is a great source of iron which helps to prevent anaemia, decreases the risk of ovulatory infertility and plays a role in the production and function of red blood cells. Red meat is also a good source of vitamin B12 which is essential in the maintenance and development of the nervous system.

Honey

Honey has been used to enhance fertility throughout history as it is incredibly rich in the minerals and amino acids that nourish the reproductive system and stimulate ovarian function. It's considered by many to be a fertility boosting super food.

Spinach

Spinach and other leafy greens are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimising sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin C which helps to enhance sperm quality by protecting the DNA stored within it from damage.

Oysters

It is the abundance of zinc found in this seafood delicacy that gives it its fertility boosting qualities. Zinc is often considered to be the most important fertility nutrient as it has been shown to help with both healthy sperm and egg production. If oysters aren't your thing, zinc can also be found in baked beans, eggs, nuts, whole grains and pumpkin seeds.

Chillies

These certainly 'spice' things up in the fertility department by increasing the flow of blood around the body, ensuring that the reproductive system gets a healthy supply. Chillies also stimulate endorphin production which means more fertility boosting, stress releasing, happy hormones circulate around your body and are also an excellent source of vitamin C which helps with iron absorption.

Avocado

Avocado provides a rich source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential fertility nutrient for both men and women as it improves the viability of sperm and helps to regulate both ovulation and the production of cervical mucus. It is also an excellent source of unsaturated fats which are essential for healthy hormone functioning, olive oil is another good vegetable source.

In general when trying for a baby it pays to go for good quality, unprocessed foods as these are likely to be much richer in vitamins, minerals and nutrients and also freer from pesticides and added oestrogens that may disrupt reproductive functioning in both men and women. By supplementing a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle with the foods listed above you will help to ensure you have all the nutrients you need to ensure your reproductive system is in optimum condition.
The Good: Be sure you're getting enough of these three important baby-making minerals at 3 weeks pregnant (all can be found in a good prenatal vitamin, as well as the following foods).

• Calcium (three servings a day) may actually boost your ability to conceive. You can find this important bone-builder (and baby-builder) not just in dairy products, but also in fortified juices, tofu and soy products (including that super-tasty snack, edamame), broccoli, leafy green vegetables, sesame seeds, and canned salmon with bones.
  
• Manganese (about 2 mg a day) is important for good reproductive function — in other words, a baby-making essential. Spinach, carrots, broccoli, whole grains, nuts, bananas, and raisins are all good sources of manganese.
• Zinc is crucial for conception — in fact, severe deficiencies can impair fertility.  Get your full share (about 15 mg a day) via a supplement or by eating turkey, beef, lamb, pork, chicken, almonds, beans, wheat germ, yogurt, oatmeal, corn, eggs, fortified breads and cereals, and cooked shellfish, especially oysters. (Could that be why oysters have always been on the hot list when it comes to aphrodisiacs?)

In addition to these big three, don't forget to get your fill of folic acid. While it won't make you fertile, it is critical to your baby's health — not just in the earliest days of pregnancy but before you even conceive.  You'll find folic in spinach and other green leafies; citrus fruits; nuts, legumes; and enriched products, such as grains and orange juice — but for insurance, take a prenatal vitamin too.
 
The Bad: Avoid two big fertility-busters: excessive caffeine (more than three cups of coffee a day) and alcohol (heavy drinking can impair fertility in both men and women). 

Foods That Boost Fertility 

Foods that contain nutrients that are proven to enhance fertility and/or semen production include, but are not limited to:

* Spinach

* Spirulina (seaweed)

* Barley

* Asparagus

* Pumpkin seeds

* Flaxseed oil

* Oysters (not vegan)

* Poultry

There are several nutrients that are very important for increasing fertility.
• Amino Acids – These are found in protein-rich foods and are needed for healthy egg production.
• Vitamin A – This vitamin improves a woman’s production of hormones. Vitamin A can be found in eggs, yellow vegetables and fruit, milk, dark green vegetables and fish. Do not eat liver for Vitamin A. It has been known to cause serious health problems in women and fetuses.
• Beta-Carotene – This will regulate your period, improving your chances for conception. It can be found in peas, carrots, broccoli, spinach and sweet potatoes.
• Vitamin B – The B vitamins increase a woman’s hormones, improving fertility. B can be found in molasses, whole grains, nuts, brown rice, egg yolks, fish, seeds, wheat germ, salmon, sweet potatoes, broccoli, strawberries, green vegetables, oysters, dried figs and avocados.
• Vitamin C – Vitamin C is an antioxidant that blocks damaging free radicals. There is plenty of Vitamin C in strawberries, citrus fruits, cherries, cantaloupe, broccoli, tomatoes, sweet peppers, mangos, kiwi, pineapple, grapes, peas, potatoes, parsley and spinach. Too much vitamin C can dry cervical mucus, so do not take over 1,000 mg a day.
• Folate – Folic acid is a must when trying to get pregnant. It reduces the risk of birth defects and increases chances for conception.
• Iron – Iron deficiency can increase chances of miscarriage. To increase iron, eat lean red meat, eggs, fish, molasses, poultry, dried fruit, cherries, green vegetables, spinach, parsley, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, oatmeal, nuts and sardines.
• Magnesium – Low magnesium will decrease fertility. Kelp, green vegetables, tofu, beans, rye, millet and buckwheat all contain magnesium.

I got that from....

L-Arginine And Fertility

L-Arginine (16 g/day) Was shown to increase fertility in women who had previously failed in-vitro fertilization-IVF-procedures. (Battaglia C, Salvatori M, Maxia N, et al. Adjuvant L-arginine treatment for in-vitro fertilization in poor responder patients. Hum Reprod 1999;14:1690–7)


L-arginine treatment for in-vitro fertilization in poor responder patients.


Hum Reprod. 1999 Jul;14(7):1690-7.

The objective of the present study was prospectively and randomly to evaluate the role of L-arginine in improving uterine and follicular Doppler flow and in improving ovarian response to gonadotrophin in poor responder women. A total of 34 patients undergoing assisted reproduction was divided in two groups according to different ovarian stimulation protocols: (i) flare-up gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) plus elevated pure follicle stimulating hormone (pFSH) (n = 17); and (ii) flare-up GnRHa plus elevated pFSH plus oral L-arginine (n = 17). During the ovarian stimulation regimen, the patients were submitted to hormonal (oestradiol and growth hormone), ultrasonographic (follicular number and diameter, endometrial thickness) and Doppler (uterine and perifollicular arteries) evaluations. Furthermore, the plasma and follicular fluid concentrations of arginine, citrulline, nitrite/nitrate (NO2-/NO3-), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were assayed. All 34 patients completed the study. In the L-arginine treated group a lower cancellation rate, an increased number of oocytes collected, and embryos transferred were observed. In the same group, increased plasma and follicular fluid concentrations of arginine, citrulline, NO2-/NO3-, and IGF-1 was observed. Significant Doppler flow improvement was obtained in the L-arginine supplemented group. Three pregnancies were registered in these patients. No pregnancies were observed in the other group. It was concluded that oral L-arginine supplementation in poor responder patients may improve ovarian response, endometrial receptivity and pregnancy rate. 
Where I got that from above?
 
L-arginine Forums
 
L-arginine and Baby Aspirin
Should I take L-arginine?
TCYOF .....any luck?
Fertility Friends

Fertility Tips: How to Get Pregnant Fast

When you want to get pregnant, you want to get pregnant now. (Being patient is okay in theory until you actually switch into babymaking mode, right?) If you want to increase your odds of getting pregnant sooner rather than later, the following tips from Ann Douglas -- author of The Mother of All Pregnancy Books (U.S. edition and Canadian edition), The Mother of All Pregnancy Organizers and The Unofficial Guide to Having a Baby (first edition and second edition) -- will help you to maximize your chances of conceiving quickly and ending up with a healthy baby. (Note: If you find this list of tips helpful, you may want to read some of Ann's fertility articles (she's a columnist for Conceive Magazine.)




Start taking folic acid now. You reduce your chances of giving birth to a baby with a neural tube defect (for example, anencephaly or spina bifida) by 50% to 70% if you start taking at least 0.4 mg of folic acid each day two to three months before you start trying to conceive.

Try to keep sex fun when you're trying to conceive. Use rooms other than the bedroom or schedule your babymaking rendezvous for an odd time of day. The rationale? You won't be able to keep up the babymaking pace for very long if sex starts feeling like a chore.

Don't hop up and run to the bathroom right after you make love. Lying down for at least a few minutes (some fertility experts say five minutes) after intercourse increases the odds that the sperm will be able to keep their date with the awaiting egg and that you'll win at baby roulette.

Make love often during your fertile period (the five days leading up to ovulation). If you've got the stamina to make love at least every 48 hours, you will ensure that there's a fresh shipment of sperm waiting in the fallopian tube at any given time. Of course, you can get too much of a good thing if your partner has a low sperm count, so if you're aware of a pre-existing fertility problem, you'll want to talk this issue over with your fertility specialist.

Keep in mind that babymaking is a numbers game. Even if you do everything "right," you still have only a 25% to 30% chance of conceiving in any given cycle. (See The Mother of All Pregnancy Books (U.S. edition and Canadian edition), The Mother of All Pregnancy Organizers and The Unofficial Guide to Having a Baby (first edition and the brand new second edition for more on how factors like age and your previous reproductive history affect your odds of conceiving sooner rather than later.

Here's a bit of sex-related trivia, just in case you and your partner are looking for a little inspiration. There are over 114 million sex acts performed around the world.

Are you a coffee drinker? Time to give it up or switch to decaf! Caffeine is thought to restrict the growth of a developing baby by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the uterus. What's more, a few studies have indicated that excessive consumption of caffeine (that is, more than three cups of drip coffee per day) may contribute to fertility problems. The jury is still out on this last point, however.

Are you or your partner regularly exposed to hazardous substances in the workplace? You may need to consider a job change or job modification before you start your family. Certain substances can affect both the quality of sperm and the development of the embryo.

Have you had your preconception checkup yet? Set up an appointment with your doctor to review your medical history and to talk about your plans to start trying to conceive. (Note: You can find a detailed discussion of preconception health issues in The Unofficial Guide to Having a Baby (second edition) and The Mother of All Pregnancy Books (U.S. edition and Canadian edition).

Are you currently taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs? Be sure to ask your doctor if it's safe for you to continue taking them once you start trying to conceive.

If you aren't already doing so, start keeping a menstrual calendar. Note the date when your period starts, the number of days it lasts, and anything else your doctor might want to know about. This information could prove helpful if you experience problems in conceiving. It can also prove invaluable in pinpointing the date of conception -- and consequently your due date.

Try to book the last appointment of the day for your preconception checkup. That's when your doctor or midwife is most likely to be able to take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns without feeling rushed to go on to the next patient.

Make your vaginal environment as sperm-friendly as possible. Avoid vaginal sprays and scented tampons (which can cause a pH imbalance in your vagina); artificial lubricants, vegetable oils, and glycerin (because they can kill off sperm); saliva (because saliva can also kill sperm); and douching (because it alters the normal acidity of the vagina; can cause vaginal infections and/or pelvic inflammatory disease; and may wash away the cervical mucus that is needed to transport the sperm).

If you're monitoring your cervical mucus in an attempt to predict your most fertile days, do your checks before you shower, bathe, or swim. These activities can all affect the quantity and quality of your cervical mucus.



Read More...Click Here

Herbs

Herbs that Improve Fertility


The following herbs have beneficial properties when it comes to getting pregnant:



•Chaste Tree Berry: chaste tree berry can improve women’s chances of conceiving because it helps reduce hormonal imbalances; it also stimulates the action of pituitary gland, increasing progesterone and luitenizing hormone production, which helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. This herb also reduces stress levels, which in turn has a beneficial impact on reproduction health and daily use promotes fertility

•Dong Quai: this herb improves your chances of getting pregnant by balancing estrogen and by regulating menstrual cycles. It can also improve implantation of the egg for women with autoimmune problems. However, dong quai is also a blood thinner and should therefore not be used during menstruation.

•False Unicorn Root: this herb improves reproductive health and has a normalizing effect on the ovaries. Taking too much false unicorn root can result in blurred vision, kidney or stomach irritation and vomiting

•Wild Yam: wild yam increases the production of progesterone and therefore increases your chances of getting pregnant. Wild yam should always be taken after ovulation occurs, as taking this herb before ovulation can actually prevent ovulation from taking place, thereby reducing fertility



Herbs to Avoid When Trying to Get Pregnant

It is always important to consult with your doctor or fertility specialist about taking any herbs, as even some popular herbs are not properly regulated. Also, some herbs that are popular in promoting pregnancy can actually be unsafe; for example, a recent study found that ginseng is a particularly dangerous herb to take while pregnant.

In addition, while black and blue cohosh are both commonly prescribed herbs for improving fertility, they can alos carry some serious health risks. Neither of these herbs should be taken when trying to get pregnant, or when there is a chance that an egg has been fertilized. That is because black and blue cohosh are emmengogues, meaning they are uterine tonics which can cause contractions and have adverse effects on implantation.



Here are some more tips on taking herbs while trying to get pregnant:



•only take herbs when you know you have a fertility problem that herbs can help with

•never self-medicate. Always consult a qualified medical herbalist before taking any herb

•tell your herbalist about any other medication you are taking and that you are trying to get pregnant

•be honest with your doctor/fertility specialist and tell him about any herbal fertility supplements you are currently taking or that you have taken in the past





Caution

You should not take any of the above herbs if you are taking, The Pill, Fertillity drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment or other medication unless they are recommended by a registered, experienced practitioner.



Suggest that you follow this four-month plan and do not try to conceive within that time. Why? Because when you follow the plan, your fertility will begin to increase. Everything needs to be working at optimum level before you conceive, both to prevent a miscarriage, and to give you the best possible chance of having a healthy baby.

Ways to Boost Fertility

1. Watch Weight




The ancient fertility goddesses were plump and curvaceous, but modern science favors a more svelte figure for fertility. Indeed, being overweight can sabotage your chance of getting pregnant. In order to conceive and carry a baby, the central portion of your brain needs to send hormonal messages to your ovaries and uterus to promote egg production and prepare your womb for implantation. If you’re overweight, these signals can get misinterpreted by your ovary, causing an overproduction of testosterone, which may interrupt ovulation. Your uterus in turn may not prepare adequately for embryo implantation, so even if you do ovulate and your egg is fertilized, the embryo may not implant.



But don’t be daunted. It doesn’t take a lot of weight loss to get back in balance and reset your fertility signals. If you’re overweight, you’ll see benefits after losing only 5 percent of your body weight (if you’re obese, you should aim for a 10 percent weight loss). But your daily calorie balance is equally, if not more, important than how much weight you lose. In other words, simply not overeating on a daily basis--same energy in as energy out--will improve your fertility long before you reach your ideal weight. Part of the reason for this is that once you’re watching your weight, you’re making healthier choices, and avoiding unhealthy high sugar, processed foods, which tend to trigger fertility-dampening hormone imbalances like high insulin. Overeating also causes these unhealthy spikes.





2. Eat Well







3. Quit Smoking



4. Know Your Cycle



5. Don't be stress out.

Stress and Infertility – Ways to Reduce Anxiety to Increase Fertility

Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen • Related • Filed Under

5 Quick Tips for Getting Pregnant5 Fertility Yoga Tips for Couples Trying to ConceiveAcupuncture to Increase Fertility – 6 Tips to Improve Fertility Acupuncture for Infertility – An Acupuncturist’s Tips for Getting PregnantInfertility Support – 6 Tips for Finding Fertility Information OnlineI Want Regular Periods! Tips for Regulating Your Menstrual CycleHow to Get Pregnant – 10 Ways to Maximize Your Chances of ConceptionShould You Try Natural Herbal Remedies to Get Pregnant?Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – Weight Loss Tips for Women With PCOSChinese Medicine for Infertility – Getting Pregnant With Acupuncture

Filed Under: Depression & Anxiety • General Infertility Issues • Health • Resources for Infertility • Stress Management Tags: decreasing stress • fertility yoga • increase fertility • infertility acupuncturist • infertility in women • making a baby • overcoming depression • reduce anxiety • tips for getting pregnant

Reducing stress isn’t a fertility cure, but it can increase your chances of getting pregnant! Here, infertility acupuncturist Kristen Burris explains how stress and infertility are connected, and offers over 20 ways to reduce anxiety.



Burris offers these tips for getting pregnant in response to a reader’s question on Does Career Stress Lead to Infertility in Women?, here on Quips & Tips for Couples Coping With Infertility. Here’s what the reader said:



“We’ve been married for four years and trying to get pregnant for three. I’ve been meeting the gynecologists for two years and undergone a lot of fertility tests and treatments, but still here I am with no baby. To combat the infertility, I worked from home [to reduce stress], but nothing has clicked so far. I am planning to completely get rid of the office work so that I can stay peaceful…any suggestions for me?”



Below is Burris’ response, plus an explanation of how stress and infertility interact. For more information on getting pregnant, click Making a Baby: Everything You Need to Know to Get Pregnant.

Stress and Infertility – How Anxiety Affects Fertility Levels



Quitting your job doesn’t always equate with less stress. There are some questions you want to ask yourself, such as: Can you afford financially to quit your job? Does your job bring you happiness and satisfaction? If you do quit your job how will you fill your daily life: sitting around watching television or taking up yoga and cooking with whole foods? The latter will bring more healthful rewards and increase your fertility; the former will bring weight gain and depression. Quitting your job may actually add more stress to your life, but that is for you to decide.



If your job is producing an extraordinary amount of stress then yes, it will increase your fertility to quit. Most people don’t realize the stressors we endure in modern day life! As I write this, I have numerous stressors I’ve learned to ignore: the traffic driving by just beyond my computer screen, the phone ringing, music in the background, the lingering list of to-do for Christmas preparation, the pesky worry of the future that pops up from my conscience to every day awareness, my husband typing on his computer… you get the idea.



We don’t perceive these things as stress, but most people are constantly multi-tasking – even in a peaceful office with aromatherapy and soothing music. The majority of people have intense pressures from spouses, in-laws, neighbors, bosses, and financial institutions. This constant attack we endure stresses our sympathetic nervous system, putting our body in a constant state of fight or flight, wreaking havoc on our endocrine system, and literally shutting down our reproductive system.













Fight or flight is a state in which we feel under attack. Some theories suggest this was built into our bodies for survival against savage animals when we lived in the wild. When we feel our lives are at stake, our pupils dilate to see better, our breath quickens, our heart rate increases dramatically — all propelled by adrenaline so we can run quickly to survive!



Unfortunately our digestive, urinary, bowel and reproductive systems get cut off – which affects our ability to get pregnant. There is no need to reproduce when all of our energy needs to be expended in order to survive.



Anxiety, Stress, and Infertility



How this translates to modern day time – and fertility and getting pregnant – is that our stressors are constant and overwhelming. The modern conveniences push us to do more, work more, be more. The intensity of the daily news is so traumatic one can’t help but be stressed by the devastating news of the world at large. We are constantly answering phones, texts, emails, paper mail just to get out the door in the morning and get our real work done. We are constantly bombarded by advertisers, telemarketers, politicians, local business men and women, churches, schools, and neighbors, to give, drive, celebrate and donate. We have accepted this as the way of life, but it costs us our health, weight, emotional well-being, and fertility.



We often run out the door with coffee sloshing in our mugs, taxing our adrenal glands and slowing blood flow to our reproductive organs. Maybe a handful of crackers are shoved haphazardly in our mouths as we race down the road to sit in traffic and ward off maniac drivers. Then we turn on the radio to be bombarded with talk and gossip and dread. We rush into our offices only to find our irritated boss with a deadline to meet and a pay cut delivered and it’s only 7:30 a.m.! The madness must stop. We need to slow down, calm ourselves, and take a good look at our lives to discover how we can reduce stress and anxiety, and thus increase our chances of getting pregnant.



Ways to Reduce Anxiety to Increase Fertility



Work no more than 40 hours a week

Always plan something fun on the weekends

Exercise is a priority not a luxury

Swap coffee for green tea or Teccino (herbal non caffeinated coffee substitute)

Learn to meditate or buy a Mind-Body CD

Take a yoga class for fertility

Pray

Enjoy laughter with girlfriends

Make love when you are NOT fertile

Love your job or change careers

Turn off your TV

Go on a news fast

Have lavender aromatherapy at home, work and your car

Listen to classical music

Learn to Belly Breathe

Get acupuncture – unexplained infertility responds well to acupuncture

Spend time only with people who nourish you; avoid those who don’t

Rent a funny movie

Join RESOLVE (a non-profit organization that helps couples who have a hard time conceiving or staying pregnant)

Just say no to baby showers

Let it go

Use an ovulation predictor kit (the Clear Blue Easy Ovulation Predictor Kit is around $200 is more helpful than just the wands)

Infertility is one of the hardest things any human can face, but you will get through this! Try to find the gems in the journey: meeting fabulous people, rediscovering compassion through your own suffering, a stronger relationship with God, and a more complete understanding of who you are and what you can endure.







6. Don't Drink Alcohol



7. Get Busy and 'Do It'



8. Don't Douche

Increase Fertility With Supplements

There is now a great deal of scientific knowledge about the use of nutritional supplements and their beneficial effects on both male and female fertility. As you will see, these supplements can be very effective in re-balancing your hormones, as well as improving you and your partner's overall health, which are so vital for successful conception.




Supplements are necessary because even the best diet in the world will not contain all the nutrients you need to give you the best chance of conceiving.





Folic Acid



It is now known that folic acid can prevent spina bifida in your baby, and it is essential that you get plenty both before and during pregnancy. And that's not all: folic acid is undoubtedly important, but it is just part of the very important B-complex family of vitamins that are necessary to produce the genetic materials DNA and RNA. Together with vitamin B12, folic acid works to ensure that your baby's genetic codes are intact. Remember: it's not enough to take folic acid alone when you are trying to become pregnant. All of the B vitamins are essential during the pre-conceptual period. Research has shown that giving B6 to women who have trouble conceiving increases fertility and vitamin B12 has been found to improve low sperm counts





Zinc



Zinc is the most widely studied nutrient in terms of fertility for both men and women. It is an essential component of genetic material and a zinc deficiency can cause chromosome changes in either you or our partner, leading to reduced fertility and an increased risk of miscarriage. Zinc is necessary for your body to 'attract and hold' (utilise efficiently) the reproductive hormones, oestrogen and progesterone.



And it's equally important for your partner: zinc is found in high concentrations in the sperm. Zinc is needed to make the outer layer and tail of the sperm and is, therefore, essential for the health of your partner's sperm and, subsequently, your baby. Interestingly, several studies have also shown that reducing zinc in a man's diet will also reduce his sperm count.





Selenium



Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect your body from highly reactive chemical fragments called free radicals. For this reason, selenium can prevent chromosome breakage, which is known to be a cause of birth defects and miscarriages. Good levels of selenium are also essential to maximise sperm formation. Blood selenium levels have been found to be lower in men with low sperm counts.





Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)



These essential fats have a profound effect on every system of the body, including the reproductive system and they are crucial for healthy hormone functioning. For men essential fatty acid supplementation is crucial because the semen is rich in prostaglandins which are produced from these fats. Men with poor sperm quality, abnormal sperm, poor motility or low count, have inadequate levels of these beneficial prostaglandins.





Vitamin E





Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant and has been shown to increase fertility when given to both men and women. Men going for IVF treatment with their partners have been given vitamin E, and fertilisation rates have, as a result, increased from 19 to 29 percent. It has been suggested that the antioxidant activity of vitamin E might make the sperm more fertile.





Vitamin C



Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, and studies show that vitamin C enhances sperm quality, protecting sperm and the DNA within it from damage. Some research has indicated that certain types of DNA damage in the sperm can make it difficult to conceive in the first place, or it can cause an increased risk of miscarriage if conception does take place. If DNA is damaged, there may be a chromosomal problem in the baby, should the pregnancy proceed. Whether or not DNA damage does have these effects has not been conclusively proven, but it's worth taking vitamin C and the other antioxidants as a precautionary measure.



Vitamin C also appears to keep the sperm from clumping together, making them more motile.



One study has shown that women taking the drug clomiphene to stimulate ovulation will have a better chance of ovulating if vitamin C is taken alongside the drug. Clomiphene does not always work in every woman, but the chances are often increased when vitamin C is supplemented.





L-Arginine



This is an amino acid found in many foods and the head of the sperm contains an exceptional amount of this nutrient, which is essential for sperm production. Supplementing with L-arginine can help to increase both the sperm count and quality.



Note: People who have herpes attacks (either cold sores or genital herpes) should not supplement with arginine because it stimulates the virus.





L-Carnitine



This amino acid is essential for normal functioning of sperm cells. According to research, it appears that the higher the levels of L-Carnitine in the sperm cells, the better the sperm count and motility.





Vitamin A



This vitamin needs to be mentioned because there is a lot of confusion about its use before and after pregnancy. Many health practitioners now advise that no vitamin A is taken during pregnancy. This advice is incorrect, and it can be dangerous to assume that any vitamin or other nutrient should be avoided during the gestational period. Vitamin A has important antioxidant properties, and the consequences of Vitamin A deficiency during pregnancy can be devastating. For one thing, vitamin A is essential for healthy eyes. Animals studies show that vitamin A deficiency during pregnancy has produced new-born animals with no eyes, eye defects, undescended testes and diaphragmatic hernias.



It is only when the vitamin A is in the form of retinol (in other words, the animal form of vitamin A) that there is a problem. It has been found that retinol can cause birth defects if taken in excess of 10,000iu a day. Beta-carotene, which is one of the vegetable forms of vitamin A, does not carry any risks.

Foods To Avoid

Foods to Avoid to Increase Fertility .....


Foods that spike insulin levels such as simple carbohydrates and sugary foods can decrease fertility. This is especially important for women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Foods that balance blood glucose levels such as whole-wheat and high fiber foods, barley, oatmeal and some fruits and vegetables can increase fertility if the problem is due to insulin fluctuations.



Some foods can also cause imbalances in hormones in the body. Phytoestrogens are chemicals in plants that are converted to estrogen in the body. Xenoestrogens are found in meats and plant foods due to artificial hormones, pesticides and fertilizers. A fertility diet expert may recommend that foods high in these hormones be avoided. These include soya milk and soy products, yams, pumpkin, licorice, rice, processed meats and vegetables and fruits that were grown with artificial fertilizers and pesticides.
I got this from..... here

The Instead Fertility Cup

The Instead™ Fertility Cup™ is under review with the FDA as an over-the-counter (OTC) aid to conception.




Anecdotal evidence and user testimonials support the development of a version of the Instead™ Softcup™ into a product that may help women become pregnant by trapping and holding semen close to the cervix to allow easier penetration into the cervical mucus.



Low sperm count and low sperm motility can account for up to 40% of all fertility related problems.

Where I got this from?