(NewsUSA) - The ongoing pandemic has highlighted the importance of keeping your immune system strong and healthy, according to Leonard A. Farber, MD, a healthcare executive and expert in emerging technologies and their impact on public health.     

A weak immune system increases your risk not only for developing illness, but for a more severe case if you do become ill with something such as COVID-19, says Dr. Farber, who also serves as a spokesperson for nutritional supplement manufacturer Quadramune.     

Fortunately, there are many ways the average person can strengthen his or her immune system. In many cases, following the obvious and well-known advice to get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly can help boost your immune system. Other factors include avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and incorporating ways to relieve stress, such as with yoga, tai chi, or other mindfulness-related activities.     

In addition, the right nutritional supplements can play an important role in reducing inflammation in the body and supporting a healthy immune system, says Dr. Farber. “At early stages, our bodies’ inflammatory response can fight off infection as well as play an integral role in injury repair. When inflammatory cells reach an unhealthy level such as in chronic inflammation, they can trigger your body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues and organs,” Dr. Farber explains.     

Nutritional supplements, such as those developed by Quadramune, are designed to help keep the immune system in balance. Anti-inflammatory foods such as salmon, tofu, walnuts, grapes, and olive oil can have a positive effect on the immune system, and many of the active ingredients in these foods are actually found in Quadramune supplements.     

The Quadramune supplements provide the benefits of infection-fighting power and protection against chronic inflammation, according to the company website. Several key ingredients in Quadramune supplements include:     

• Pterostilbene. A natural dietary compound that has shown antioxidant activity and inflammatory properties.     
• Epigallocatechin gallate. This powerful antioxidant plant compound boasts antioxidant properties and potential ability to help protect the lungs and promote healthy T cell activity.     
• Sulphoraphane. This natural plant compound has been shown to help reduce inflammation, which may help protect your lungs and reduce your vulnerability to respiratory infections.     
• Thymoquinone: phytochemical compound found in the plant Nigella sativa.  This active ingredient is chemically related to hydroxychloroquine, but with no prescription needed. It has demonstrated to stimulate natural killer (NK) cells which are antiviral, and is a potential antiviral itself based on its mechanistic effects on cells.     

This combination of ingredients “can be immune stimulating or boosting and preventative of an unhealthy immune response,” says Dr. Farber. “This allows the body a better chance not only to fight the onset of an infection or inflammatory reaction but also to lessen the severity of certain illnesses, especially those that are inflammatory-based in nature,” he adds.     

For more information, visit buyquadramune.com. 

(NewsUSA) - Colorectal cancer remains the third most common non-skin cancer in American adults, according to the American Cancer Society. Regular screening is essential to identifying colorectal cancer early, so it can be effectively treated. If colorectal cancer is caught early, five-year survival rates are as high as 90 percent. However, many people do not seek routine screening, and don’t experience symptoms until their cancers are advanced and harder to treat.     

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer should be screened every five years starting at age 45. Unfortunately, the disparities that persist in many areas of health care continue to affect colorectal cancer screening.     

For example, according to the Ohio Department of Health, colorectal cancer is diagnosed in more than 5,200 Ohioans each year, and the state’s colorectal cancer mortality rate among Blacks from 2012 to 2016 was 20% higher than that of whites.     

Strategies to reduce these disparities include offering more options for screening.     

“I believe that it is important to not pressure people to use one particular screening approach. It is up to them and their doctor to determine the method and frequency that is best in their case,” says AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Market Chief Medical Officer Steven Spalding, M.D. “The important thing is that everyone get regularly screened.”     

Screening methods, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) recommended frequency for those at average risk, include:     

• Every Year: A fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Both check for blood in your stools. These tests can be done in your own home, and require no advance preparation or dietary restrictions.     

• Every 1-3 Years: A FIT-DNA test, which combines FIT with a test that looks for altered DNA in the stool. This test also can be done at home without advance preparation.     

• Every 5 Years: A flexible sigmoidoscopy, in which a doctor puts a short, thin, flexible tube into your rectum and the lower third of the colon. The device allows the doctor to remove most polyps and take biopsies.     

• Every 10 Years: A colonoscopy, which is similar to a flexible sigmoidoscopy but examines the entire colon. Your doctor also will conduct a colonoscopy if any of the other screening methods reveal anything unusual.     

AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, a Medicaid managed care organization that is slated to begin serving Ohio Medicaid enrollees later this year, will cover the costs of colorectal cancer screening tests on the CDC’s schedule from ages 45 to 75, and earlier and/or more frequently for members considered to be higher risk. However, other Medicaid plans can have different policies, so be sure to check with your health plan.   

 For more information about AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, visit www.amerihealthcaritasoh.com.

(NewsUSA) - Many older adults would prefer to remain in their own homes as they age, but a lack of affordable options makes this plan a challenge for individuals and their families, according to results of a new survey of more than 1,700 caregivers and other respondents in two rural California counties.     

Older individuals may find themselves burning through savings to stay at home, or forced to move to a nursing home or long-term-care facility if they can’t afford to hire home-care help, according to the survey. The survey was sponsored by Legacy Health Endowment, a California-based nonprofit healthcare grant-making foundation.   

Often, adult children become caregivers, and they face financial and emotional hardships of their own. Nearly 80% of the survey respondents says that their caregiving responsibilities have affected their ability to pay their household expenses. Adult children may sacrifice saving for their own retirements, funding their children’s college education, or making down payments on a home to financially support and care for aging parents.     

In these situations, “caregivers shoulder the burden of rearranging their schedules, juggling doctors’ visits and prescriptions, squeezing in regular shopping trips and performing essential housekeeping chores, all while caring for a spouse or aging parent,” explains Jeffrey Lewis, President and CEO of Legacy Health Endowment.   

The burden is even heavier for women, says Lewis. “Women who leave the labor force early because of care-giving responsibilities cost themselves an average of $324,044 in lost salary and Social Security and pension contributions over their lifetimes,” he adds.     

Other key survey results related to women caregivers include the following:     

• Approximately 90% think services that allow seniors and those who are disabled to live where they prefer are important.     
• Approximately 72% say that caregiving responsibilities have impacted their physical, mental, and emotional health.     
• Approximately 60% report decreasing their work time because of caregiving responsibilities.

The survey also found overwhelming support from respondents for respite care for primary caregivers, who often face fatigue and burnout. More than 91% say they support programs that provide resources for their own mental health as well as resources to help with caregiving.  

The survey was sponsored by Legacy Health Endowment and conducted by J. Wallin Opinion Research, and conducted in English and Spanish between March 25 and April 19, 2022, in Stanislaus and Merced counties. The data were collected by professional interviewers by calling cell phones and landline phones, as well as online interviews via text, e-mail and social media.     

For full survey results,visit legacyhealthendowment.org.

(By George Renaudin, SVP, Humana) - Now that we’re halfway through 2022, it’s important that people with Medicare re-evaluate what is included in the Medicare Advantage health plans they selected to ensure they’re maximizing their coverage throughout the year.

While it’s common for Medicare Advantage members to use benefits such as coverage for doctor’s appointments, preventive screenings and vaccines, many plans offer additional benefits so individuals should look to take advantage of the innovative options that might be included in their plan, such as:  

• Transportation Benefits: Several health plans cover non-emergency medical transportation to and from doctor’s appointments. If transportation has been a problem for you, or you’d prefer to not drive, inquire with your health plan about transportation benefits in your area.     

• Fitness Programs: The SilverSneakers health and fitness program is designed for individuals with Medicare. Members have access to 15,000 participating U.S. fitness locations which may have cardio equipment, pools, and free weights as well as fitness classes and social events. The program also includes yoga, walking groups and on-demand video classes.     

• COVID Care: In addition to the free tests offered by the government, some Medicare Advantage plans currently offer 14 days of home-delivered meals (up to 28 meals) as well as $0 copays for testing, treatment, and vaccinations.     

• Insulin Savings: The price of insulin can be a barrier for the 3.3 million people with Medicare who use it. Fortunately, many plans offer a benefit to help members save money on insulin costs. For example, some Humana members pay no more than $35 for a 30-day supply of select insulins at all in-network pharmacies.     

These are just some of the benefits included in Medicare Advantage plans. If you’re currently enrolled in a plan, reach out to your agent or health plan to confirm what you’re eligible for so you can take advantage of these resources, as the only opportunity to change your plan outside of the annual election period is if you encounter certain events, such as moving or losing other insurance coverage.

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organization and a stand-alone PDP prescription drug plan with a Medicare contract.  Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal.

George Renaudin is a senior vice president at Humana.

(NewsUSA) - When was the last time you thought about the health of your nails? In fact, healthy nails are not only attractive, but they are also important to overall health.     

Nails can even be a window into underlying serious disease. Proper nail care helps keep your hard-working hands and feet looking and feeling their best by decreasing infection risk and breakage. As temperatures start to rise and RSVP season kicks into high gear, it’s time to show your nails some love.     

According to Dr. Dana Stern, a board-certified dermatologist and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, the most common mistakes people make when it comes to caring for their nails are choosing the wrong products and using the wrong tools.     

“We need to think about nail care in the same way we think about skin care and pay more attention to products we’re using and how we focus on not just the look of our nails but the underlying health,” says Dr Dana.     

Dr. Dana, the only dermatologist who devotes her entire practice to nail diagnosis, treatment, and surgery, is a go-to dermatologist for patients seeking advice on how to treat nail conditions and gel damage, as well as the best ways to keep their nails healthy and beautiful. Some common nail complaints she hears from patients are dryness, weakness, ridges, and aging related nail issues. She also hears her patients talk about dry, brittle nails from all the hand washing and use of hand sanitizer.     

Dr. Dana shares her top three tips to improve the look and health of your nails:     

First, when you’re choosing products, be mindful of the ingredients and steer clear of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and an ingredient that is in many nail strengthener formulas. Just as you wouldn’t want to use a product with harsh substances on your face or body, the same goes for products you put on your nails.     

Second, stop using abrasive emery board nail files. These files can be damaging, as they cause microscopic tears at the tips of the nails. Instead, look for glass or crystal files that will give your nails a smooth edge and won’t cause snags or tears.   

 Lastly, always wear gloves when doing wet work around the house or garden, such as washing dishes. Nails are like little sponges, and over-saturation will weaken the nail, making it prone to breakage.     

To promote nail health and help consumers take care of their nails at home, Dr Dana developed  the Nail Renewal System, which uses plant-based science to combat brittle, ridged, weak and over-processed nails. Hailed by celebrities as a nail miracle, the system produces healthy, lustrous nails within minutes of the first treatment.     

“Skin care products have progressed in line with scientific advancements, so why haven’t nail care products? It is time for a nail care brand that does more than merely mask the issues -- that revolutionizes the way people care for their nails,” says Dr. Dana.   

“In the same way that exfoliation improves the health of your skin, the Nail Renewal System is designed to remove damaged, superficial nail cells and promote hydration to improve the health of your nails,” she explains. “I like to call it a buff with benefits.” The Nail Renewal system is the first nail treatment with glycolic acid for essential exfoliation, and the product is free of formaldehyde, parabens, artificial fragrance, dyes and other toxic ingredients often found in nail care products.     

Another key ingredient is in the hydrating formula of the Nail Renewal System. Pistacia Lentiscus is a natural nail strengthener derived from the sap of a unique evergreen tree in the Mediterranean.     

The biggest myth Dr. Dana hears in her practice? “Nails do not need time to breathe in between color applications -- they don’t have lungs.” Actually, nails receive oxygen from increased blood flow resulting from exercise. So cardio is not only good for your heart, but also for your nails.     

Need more incentive to show your neglected nails some love? A nail trend that’s sweeping the fashion runways and featured in magazines is  “#TheNakedManicure.” In the same vein as the “no makeup” makeup look, it features shiny, clear nails you can show off with confidence without the pitfalls associated with polish and time and money spent at the salon.     

Dr. Dana’s Nail Renewal System is distributed through Rare Beauty Brands, a global brand platform of purpose-driven beauty brands.  

Visit drdananails.com for more information.

(NewsUSA) - Sometimes an egregious wrong gets righted.     

Such appears to be the case for military members and their families who’ve been seeking justice in the courts for exposure to contaminated water that sickened generations at the Camp Lejeune Marine base in North Carolina.     

Public outrage over their treatment heated up after victims’ lawsuits were dismissed in 2016 because of a state statute prohibiting plaintiffs from launching cases if more than 10 years have passed since the contaminating event. But last March the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 that essentially overrode that legal hurdle  -- “Thirty-four years of people were exposed to toxins in the drinking water,” one congressman raged -- and the Senate seems poised to follow suit.     

Now one of the nation’s most experienced tort law firms, Weitz & Luxenberg, has announced that it’s preparing to file lawsuits against the government in U.S. federal court on their behalf.     

“We believe they deserve compensation, especially because they and their families became sick while serving our country,” said Robin Greenwald, a partner at the firm and co-chair of its Environmental and Consumer Protection Unit. “They drank the water, they bathed in it, and they used it to cook their food.  And that water was contaminated with toxins at concentrations anywhere from 240 to 3,400 times the levels permitted by safety standards.”     

The 156,000-acre Camp Lejeune, with 11 miles of beach capable of supporting amphibious operations, is used for military training purposes primarily by the Marine Corps but also other branches of the armed forces.  Some of the most damning evidence comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s own Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): “It is ATSDR’s position that exposure from the 1950s through February 1985 to trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, vinyl chloride and other contaminants likely increased the risk of cancers, adverse birth outcomes, and other adverse health effects” for those on the base.   

The Marine Corps first discovered volatile organic compounds in Camp Lejeune’s drinking water in 1982. However, it was already too late for people like now-retired Marine Corps Master Sgt. Jerry Ensminger, whose 9-year-old daughter Janey died in 1985 after having been diagnosed with leukemia two years earlier.         

“The entire first trimester of (her mother’s) pregnancy was there on the base,” Ensminger told theHill.com on the eve of the bill’s passage. “We’ve got more documented evidence of what happened at Camp Lejeune than they have for Agent Orange.”   

Assuming the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is ultimately signed into law by the president, who would be eligible to file lawsuits?     

Those who lived, worked, or were exposed to drinking water at the base for at least 30 days from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987, and subsequently suffered water toxicity-related diseases.  Among the conditions associated with exposure to the chemicals found in the drinking water:       

• Breast, lung, liver, kidney and esophageal cancers     
• Leukemia     
• Cardiac defect     
• Female infertility     
• Miscarriage     
• Parkinson’s disease     
• Non-Hodgkins lymphoma     
• Fatty liver disease   
 • Myelodysplastic syndromes     
• Multiple myeloma     
• Renal toxicity     
• Neurobehavioral effects     
• Scleroderma     

Weitz & Luxenberg encourages those who believe they fit the criteria and have been diagnosed with one or more of those conditions to schedule a free consultation.     

The firm has a stellar track record in handling toxic contamination lawsuits. It won a landmark $423-million settlement against some of nation’s biggest oil companies, for example, in a suit involving the contamination of 153 public water systems with the gasoline additive methyl tertiary butyl ether. And Greenwald was co-lead counsel for an $11 billion settlement in 2020 against Monsanto Company on behalf of nearly 100,000 Americans suffering from Non-Hodgkins lymphoma from their exposure to the weed killer Roundup.       

As for Camp Lejeune, the ATSDR has said as many as 1 million military and civilian staff and their families might have been exposed to the contaminated drinking water. The victims who initially stepped forward only to have their cases dismissed in 2016 because of the North Carolina statute -- and they were only a tiny fraction of that number -- had reportedly filed claims totaling nearly $4 billion.

(NewsUSA) -  

“Grocery Girl”
by Virginia’dele Smith       

This is the touching first book in the Green Hills wholesome small-town romance series. If you like strong but vulnerable characters, emotional growth, and quaint backdrops, then you’ll adore this celebration of joy.  

Maree Davenport refuses to let a tearful past rule her future. The big-hearted fabric designer is determined to find happiness. When she literally runs over a handsome new firefighter in the produce section, the hopeless romantic is certain she’s just collided with destiny.  

Everyone Rhys Larsen ever loved has died. And though he may have hit it off with Maree, the haunted EMT knows better than to let her into his heart. But when an accident leaves her wounded and in need of care, he vows to nurse her back to health. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3IuASdT.

“Bed of Rose and Thorns”
by Lee Hunt  

Sir Ezra is an Elysian Bell; he has a frightening potential that he keeps hidden deep beneath tight layers of steel armor. He secretly loves a dark Queen whose touch would mean his death. Banished for brutally slaughtering the Prince of Erle and husband to the Queen, Ezra can only dream of seeing her again.  

Recalled to the Queendom after 11 years, Ezra hopes to catch a fleeting glimpse of the woman he was sacrificed for. Instead, he finds a nation in rebellion and the Queen to be an elusive phantom. His only friend, Sir Marigold, tells him that he is not needed in the capitol. Looking for both the truth and the absent Queen, Ezra only finds more secrets and enemies. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3tFs8xH.

“Diet for Great Sex: Food for Male and Female Sexual Health”
by Christine DeLozier, L.Ac.  

Sex truly becomes great when our nerves, blood vessels and hormones operate in synchrony. Luckily, modern research has shown that diet affects this trifecta, and having a great sex life just might  be as easy as preparing the right dinner.  

In this cheeky scientific guide, author Christine DeLozier, a licensed acupuncturist, explains how the foods we eat can balance hormones, increase blood flow and strengthen nerve conduction to and from the genitals. Calling upon her years of experience treating sexual health issues, and her training as a research scientist, DeLozier walks readers through the specific foods that will lead to great sex and explains the science of how it works. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3Ddghd6.

“Gut Feelings: The Patient’s Story”
by Douglas A. Drossman MD and Johannah Ruddy M.Ed.  

Gut-brain disorders affect about 40 percent of all Americans. This book builds upon the authors’ first book, “Gut Feelings: Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction,” by presenting the personal stories of eight patients to create a full understanding of their disorders, personal experience of illness and their relationship with the health care system.  

Says MD and NY Times bestselling author Will Bulsiewicz, “In these stories lie an overarching message of hope. Solutions do exist! Healing is possible! But what you will discover, time and again, is that the first step toward healing is the creation of a healthy provider-patient relationship.” Jill Preyer, a patient, adds, “It is very meaningful to finally understand what had been going on in my body all these years.” Purchase at https://bit.ly/3vN3Mmu.

NOTE: BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

Reissue: June 15, 2022

(NewsUSA) - In a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on May 17, 2022, by Mitch Carmichael, the Secretary of State for Economic Development of West Virginia, and Yong Soo Jun, Chairman of UNDBIO, Inc. the State of West Virginia agreed to provide fiscal, tax, and other incentives to promote UNDBIO’s production of insulin in West Virginia.  Secretary Carmichael also pledged to work with state, county, and local officials to promote UNDBIO’s insulin production.     

The purpose of the MOU is to meet the need for reasonably priced insulin in the United States and North America, as currently over 50 million persons are suffering from diabetes in the United States. In West Virginia alone 16 percent of the adult population suffers from diabetes.  The most commonly used forms of analogue insulin cost 10 times more in the United States than in any other developed country.     

UNDBIO estimates that its manufacture of insulin will create 1,200 new jobs in West Virginia and result in the transfer of its innovative technology platforms including human insulin, insulin analogues, and delivery innovation such as insulin sustained release injection.     

UNDBIO will commence its research and construction of its West Virginia manufacturing plant in the second half of 2022, complete its pilot facility in 2023, and manufacture clinical drugs for human clinical trials in 2024.     

“I am happy to establish our relationship with the State of West Virginia to manufacture affordable insulin and insulin analogues for the diabetic population around the globe,” said UNDBIO’s Chairman Jun. “We would welcome other partners and investors into our global insulin project,” he said.     

UNDBIO officials recently met with U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), who said, “UNDBIO has showcased their commitment to bringing long-term, good-paying jobs to West Virginia and as UNDBIO, WVU and state officials continue discussions, my staff and I are prepared to support these efforts to bring manufacturing opportunities to the Mountain State.”     

Support is echoed by U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who said “The news of this agreement between UNDBIO and the State of West Virginia is a positive step forward in UNDBIO’s quest to manufacture insulin right here in West Virginia. While there is still more work to do to finalize this new facility, I stand ready to help to make sure this becomes a reality. I congratulate UNDBIO on this advancement and look forward to supporting them in their investment that could lead to creating more than 1,000 jobs in West Virginia.”     

UNDBIO has signed a Memorandum of Understanding indicating its intention to manufacture insulin at the Research Park owned by West Virginia University (WVU) in Morgantown, West Virginia. The support of federal and state officials of West Virginia was echoed by Gordon Gee, President of West Virginia University, who said, “We look forward to building a strong relationship with UNDBIO that can further an important part of our land-grant mission to provide opportunities for better access to health care.”     

For further information, contact: Dr. Haiching Zhao/UNDBIO, [email protected]; Tel: 240-234-4717.

Reissue: June 15, 2022

(NewsUSA) - The pandemic created a major shift in the way people consume - and, more importantly, trust - information, especially as it relates to vaginal health. In fact, a new survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of RepHresh of 2,000 American women age 24-34 reveals that two in five women named Google as their go-to source of information over a physician when experiencing discomfort or vaginal health symptoms.

Many women are also turning to social media for health advice. For example, on TikTok, hashtags relating to the words "sex education" have over 70 million views. A now infamous TikTok video, providing a tutorial on how to relieve constipation through "vaginal splinting" has racked up over 3 million views and the latest popular #icecubechallenge claims to tighten the vagina and curb bacterial overgrowth.

While these trending DIY/at-home medical hacks can be entertaining, many of these practices are not only ineffective at controlling the natural balance of good and bad bacteria, but can be dangerous and cause more harm than good. Melting an ice cube in the vagina can elevate the natural pH balance and trigger a bacterial infection as the pH of water (7.5-8) is higher than the normal vaginal pH (3.5-4.5). And, while vaginal splinting is a scientific method used by medical professionals, experts caution trying it at home as it poses a risk of bacterial spread if not done properly.

The RepHresh survey found that over half (51%) thought a vagina should have a neutral pH, and only 12% correctly identified "moderately acidic" as the ideal pH balance. In addition, the top three most Googled phrases and questions respondents needed answers about included "vaginal discharge" (44%), "do I have a yeast infection?" (39%) and "vaginal odor" (37%).

With an uptick in misinformation, most women frequently misdiagnose their vaginal symptoms. That's why it's more critical than ever that women turn to trusted health care professionals for advice, proper diagnosis and remedies for the actual problem.

Here are a few important things women might not know, but need to know to maintain good vaginal health:

1. Vaginal odor is completely normal and should not be a cause for alarm. Refrain from using unnecessary scented products, including wipes and washes that claim to eliminate odor with fruity or flowery fragrances, as this will not solve the root cause of the issue, which is an unbalanced pH. Do look for clinically-backed and doctor-recommended products for vaginal health, such as over-the-counter RepHresh Gel, which rebalances pH to a healthy range, eliminates odor, and lasts up to three days.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections can present similar symptoms, such as unusual vaginal discharge and discomfort, so when women run to the drug store and buy an OTC yeast medication such as Monistat, they are not addressing the root cause of the problem. Two out of three times it is BV, which must be treated with an antibiotic from their health care provider. But, antibiotics can kill the good and bad bacteria and cause a yeast infection, so make sure to take a vaginal probiotic once a day such as RepHresh Pro-B as it contains 2 strains of vaginal lactobacilli to keep the vaginal flora in balance and eat foods high in probiotics like a healthy no-sugar-added Greek yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or miso.

3. High sugar and alcohol intake can elevate pH imbalances and contribute to an overgrowth of yeast. Maintain a healthy moderation of sugary drinks and junk food as excess amounts not only impact vaginal health, but overall weight gain and wellness.

4. Vaginal discharge is a completely normal function in which the vagina naturally removes old cells to keep the environment healthy and clean. Some women have more discharge, while others might experience very little, and it can change in color and thickness depending on the ovulation cycle. However, discharge accompanied with itching, burning, fishy odor, swelling, unusual color, or pelvic pain should be brought to a doctor's attention as it can be a bacterial infection or STI and must be treated appropriately.

Before trying something new, consult with your healthcare provider especially when things seem off to ensure the safety and efficacy of the method or product you are considering. And, don't miss your annual OB/GYN visit.

Maria Sophocles, MD, OB/GYN is the Medical Director of Women's Healthcare of Princeton in Princeton, NJ.

(NewsUSA) - Pregnant or planning a pregnancy? It's time to think about your blood pressure, even if you've never had high blood pressure. About half of pregnancy complications, such as having a preterm baby, are related to high blood pressure. Pregnancy complications also increase your risk of heart disease later in life. But many pregnancy complications can be prevented.

You may begin your pregnancy with a healthy blood pressure of less than 120/80 mm Hg, but still develop a type of high blood pressure that occurs during or right after pregnancy. One complication is gestational hypertension, defined as blood pressure 140/90 mm Hg or greater. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy or close to delivery.

Another condition is preeclampsia, a combination of high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy with other signs your organs aren't working well, such as high protein levels in your urine. Serious cases can lead to life-threatening seizures or coma, a condition known as eclampsia.

Here are seven ways to help keep you and your baby safe from problems related to high blood pressure.

1. Talk to your healthcare provider.

Even if you're not yet pregnant, knowing if you have high blood pressure can help determine if you're at higher risk for pregnancy-related complications. Work with your provider to make a plan for a healthy pregnancy. This includes discussing:

• What a healthy blood pressure range is for you.
• How to control or lower high blood pressure by adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as being physically active, choosing heart-healthy foods that are low in salt and sodium, and not smoking.
• Medications you are taking. If you're already on blood pressure medicine, ask if the type you take is okay to use when pregnant.
• Your family's health history. If others in your family had preeclampsia, your provider may recommend taking extra precautions.
• How other individual factors, such as your age, where you live, your race, or access to healthcare may affect your risk for pregnancy-related complications.

2. Monitor your blood pressure.

Usually, you can't feel if you have high blood pressure. As part of your regular prenatal care, your provider will check your blood pressure at each visit. If it's high, they may suggest you get a home monitor. If you need one, ask someone at your provider's office to help make sure it's working properly and that you're using it correctly. Then keep track of your numbers. Also, ask your healthcare provider when you should call if your numbers go up.

3. Know the signs of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia may not cause symptoms at first. However, you may notice some mild symptoms, such as:

• Swelling in your hands or face
• Gaining weight suddenly over one to two days
• Gaining more than two pounds a week
• Peeing less often than normal

Preeclampsia generally occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. It can also develop after delivery, most often within 48 hours. If you have any symptoms or something doesn't feel right, it's always best to call your provider. Go to the emergency department or call 9-1-1 if you experience any of these symptoms of severe preeclampsia:

• Headache that doesn't go away or becomes worse
• Trouble breathing
• Pain on the right side, below the ribs, or in the right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vision changes

4. Get support from friends and family.

Share signs of pregnancy complications with your family and friends. Ask them to help you monitor how you're feeling and help you get medical care. When you're talking to a health provider, these friends can make sure you describe all of your symptoms and ask all of your questions, and they can advocate for you so you get the care you need.

5. Try to manage stress.

Stress isn't good for your blood pressure. Practice turning on your body's built-in relaxation response (the opposite of the stress response). Guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing exercises are techniques that can help you relax. Moving more can help calm your mind and body, and is important for your overall heart health. Try yoga or meet up with friends for a brisk walk. Being in nature can also be very soothing for some people.

6. Stay healthy post-pregnancy.

After your pregnancy, try to keep up your self-care routines, especially for your heart health. If you had preeclampsia, you'll need to take extra care of your heart. One of the best things you can do is share the details about pregnancy complications with your healthcare providers. Tell them what happened and what treatment you received. You may need a cardiovascular screening three months after pregnancy and then annually. The screening will measure your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight. Remember -- you know your body. Identifying and modifying cardiovascular disease risks early can significantly reduce the risk for experiencing a heart attack or stroke later in life. Tell your healthcare provider if your blood pressure goes up or something doesn't feel right.

7. Learn more.

Learn more about heart health and pregnancy and find resources for tracking your blood pressure numbers at nhlbi.nih.gov/hypertension.