Thursday, December 11, 2008

Health Tips for December 11

Health Tip: Having Sex Despite Illness

People who have a chronic illness -- which may include heart disease, diabetes or asthma -- may have ongoing pain or fatigue that can hinder a healthy sex life.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers suggestions for how to enjoy sex, despite having a chronic illness:

  • Figure out what time of day you feel healthiest and most energized, and plan sex around those times.
  • Try to get plenty of rest, and make yourself feel as relaxed as possible.
  • Don't have sex within two hours of eating.
  • If you take pain medicine, take it at least 30 minutes before having sex.
  • Drink only limited amounts of alcohol, and don't use tobacco. Both can affect sexual performance.

Health Tip: Sex During Pregnancy

While sexual intercourse throughout a healthy pregnancy is usually safe, it may not be recommended for women who are a higher risk for complications.

The Nemours Foundation says sex may not be safe for pregnant women with any of the following risk factors:

  • A history or risk of miscarriage.
  • Having had a previous birth that was pre-term (earlier than 37 weeks), or having warning signs of pre-term labor.
  • Vaginal bleeding, discharge or cramping that cannot be diagnosed.
  • Leaking amniotic fluid.
  • Conditions such as placenta previa and incompetent cervix.
  • Carrying multiple fetuses.

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