Emma E. Sánchez – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:04:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Emma E. Sánchez – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 This is the easiest way to remove warts https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/this-is-the-easiest-way-to-remove-warts/ Wed, 14 Jun 2017 06:32:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/this-is-the-easiest-way-to-remove-warts/ It's not only an aesthetic problem, but also a health problem.

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It's true that everyone can get warts at some point in their lives, but there's no reason to keep them on our body. And removing them isn't as difficult as you might imagine - in fact, it will surprise you how easy it can be to make them disappear.

What's a wart?

According to WebMD, a wart is "an infection in the top layer of skin, caused by viruses in the human papillomavirus, or HPV, family."

Warts are generally caused by coming in contact with a "wart-causing virus", carried by other people (not from toads or frogs). Sometimes, symptoms don't show up for months after you've come in contact with the virus.

Warts are usually round or oval, slightly darker than the skin and can even be black in some cases. They typically don't hurt, but can spread to other parts of your body.

Can they be prevented?

Of course! Here are a few ways you can avoid warts:

  • Avoid touching other people's warts

  • If you touch them, wash you hands carefully

  • Wear shoes and socks to prevent plantar warts (a painful type of wart)

  • If you have one, wash the area well to keep it from spreading

  • Remove warts as soon as possible

How do I remove them?

Healthy Holistic Living has some great ideas for at-home wart removal to try before visiting your doctor. Here are a few suggestions:

Apple cider vinegar

Take a cotton ball (one that's roughly the size of the wart) and soak it in apple cider vinegar. Next, squeeze out the excess vinegar and then tape the soaked-cotton to the wart with a Band-Aid or medical tape. Do this in the morning and before bed and the wart will be gone before you know it.

Lemon juice

Removing warts with lemon juice is super simple. All you have to do is apply lemon juice once a day (twice for faster results), let it sit for about 20 minutes, then rinse it off. You can use the same cotton ball method described above if you want.

Garlic

Crush a piece of garlic until it's a smooth texture and apply the paste directly to the wart. Keep it on for a few hours, then wash it off with water. Keep doing this every day until the wart is gone.

How do you know if it's time to go to the doctor?

If your warts keep coming back, you should make a visit to your doctor or dermatologist. They'll remove them or give you a specific medication for the warts.

You should never cut or pick them off because you could get warts on your fingers. The open wound can also get infected.

As common as warts are, no one likes them and no one wants to have them. It's better to remove them as soon as possible, so try these DIY methods before calling your doctor.

This article has been adapted and translated from the original "Esta es la manera más fácil de eliminar verrugas" which was originally published on familias.com.

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6 signs that your child is gifted https://www.familytoday.com/family/6-signs-that-your-child-is-gifted/ Fri, 19 May 2017 06:31:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/6-signs-that-your-child-is-gifted/ Does your child have these characteristics?

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We constantly talk about children with educational lags or learning problems. But we rarely talk about children whose intelligence and cognitive abilities are remarkable. Maybe that's because these children's capabilities often aren't noticed at all or are recognized incorrectly.

Unfortunately there are few teachers who are trained to detect if a child has gifted skills. Instead, students whose intelligence is superior may be classified as "problem children" because they exhibit some of the following characteristics:

1. They get bored easily

From the teacher's point of view, the child is distracted and doesn't pay attention in class. It might actually be that the child already knows the subject or understood everything the very first time it was explained. Children may finish their work before everyone else and require more work than other students to keep them busy.

2. They learn very easily

Gifted children may understand everything quickly and easily - no need to show them by example or explain things several times. They enjoy learning and might like to watch tutorials on the internet, read more than normal kids do and write about their thoughts. Some may say the child is withdrawn because they don't play with their peers, but this may be because they enjoy learning activities rather than playful activities.

3. They have a very broad vocabulary

The child might speak words and expressions you've never heard of and discusses topics you wouldn't expect a child to know. Some teachers might interpret talks like this to be rude or disrespectful. Adults might feel challenged because they are not accustomed to talking with children who can think and express such educated ideas and opinions. Your gifted child may have even invented their own complex language instead of speaking just in English.

4. They have structure and are self-disciplined

These gifted children are like specialists when it comes to the things they take interest in and they like to keep those interests structured. Toys and books are kept in order and they can read and can talk for hours about the things they are passionate about. While they may only be talking about Star Wars, their incredible knowledge about all the planets and characters may give you a hint about their attention to detail and structure.

5. They are curious and ask a lot of questions

Your child has a special aptitude for curiosity and might seem annoying with how many questions they ask. Traditional teachers will only see a child who can't focus their attention on what's being taught at that moment, but if you pay attention, their questions reveal their gifts.

6. They have incredible focus

Everything else around them disappears when they find something new. Whatever it is completely captures their interest and they focus all of their attention on it. It may be a fictious world like Harry Potter or even a broad subject, like the ocean. This fascination might distract the child during mealtime, dinner, school, play and even falling asleep. While their fixation on a topic may seem like a distraction, it actually revels their ability to hone in on a specific topic or skill.

If any of these characteristics remind you of your own child, they might be gifted. You can discuss these abilities with your child's teacher or other school administration to figure out the best education options for your child. Like any child, children showing these signs should be kept busy and tested intellectually. If you and your children's educators realize their gifts early on, they can be focused and shaped to benefit their personality and those around them.

This article has been adapted and translated from the original "6 señales de que engendraste a un niño prodigio" which was originally published on familias.com.

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What does it mean when you dream you are pregnant or having a baby? https://www.familytoday.com/family/what-does-it-mean-when-you-dream-you-are-pregnant-or-having-a-baby/ Wed, 03 May 2017 06:31:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/what-does-it-mean-when-you-dream-you-are-pregnant-or-having-a-baby/ Dreaming about being pregnant or having a baby is common, but the most important thing to understanding what these dreams…

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Many women have dreams about expecting a baby, or have dreams where they are the happy mother of three darling little babes, though they aren't in real life. Dreaming about babies or being pregnant may happen for one of these reasons:

A yearning

Maybe you consciously (or subconsciously) want a baby but you're too scared of the responsibility. Or perhaps you had a miscarriage and still have a frustrated desire to be a mom. Somewhere in your mind, your whole being yearns to be a mother.

Someone close to you is expecting a baby or just gave birth

Maybe it's a coworker or a close friend. Maybe it's even your sister. Sometimes when someone close to you is expecting, something just clicks in your own brain. Sometimes these dreams come when you're married and finished with school and there is pressure to become pregnant. Maybe these thoughts come when you know it's more responsible to wait to have children. Whatever the case, these thoughts can certainly seep into your dreaming world.

If you and your parter are wanting to have a child, dreams like this are completely normal; there's really no hidden message behind dreaming you're finally pregnant. If this isn't the case, it's time to be honest with yourself and discover what you want. Maybe you are feeling pressured by those around you to have children, or you are putting the pressure on yourself.

You are sad

If these dreams make you sad, this could mean you are going through something that makes you feel nostalgic for your family or your childhood. Dreams of being a mother or being pregnant may be preparing you to face an era of loneliness, a broken relationship or another loss.

You're happy

If you're happy when you wake up from one of these dreams, that's an important sign. If you also feel peace, tranquility, optimism or joy, then there are good things coming. Maybe your "baby dreams" mean you'll have positive changes in your life. The child could represent innocence, happiness and purity. Face your challenges with courage that you'll grow to find beautiful new adventures.

When you have these dreams, be observant, stay calm and listen to your mind. Your intuition often senses what areas of your life may be off. When you know what needs to change, take control of your life. Do not forget that you have that power.

This article has been adapted and translated from the original "¿Qué significa en REALIDAD soñar con que estás embarazada o que tienes un bebé?" on familias.com.

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6 signs your child is anxious (that most parents don’t know) https://www.familytoday.com/family/6-signs-your-child-is-anxious-that-most-parents-dont-know/ Sat, 08 Apr 2017 16:23:58 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/6-signs-your-child-is-anxious-that-most-parents-dont-know/ Recognize the symptoms and help them.

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Until a few years ago many believed that anxiety only plagued adults. Many never thought children could also suffer these symptoms.

If you think that your war, divorce, unemployment, or grandparents' illness are not affecting your children, you're mistaken. Children listen and pay attention to more things than you can imagine. They understand that something bad is happening around them. Children perceive that the adults they love are upset and stressed. They know that their world is constantly changing and when nobody stops to explain what is happening, children can generate symptoms of anxiety.

Why should we worry about anxiety in children?

Studies show that childhood anxiety (influenced by negative family environments like divorce, illness in the home, etc) helped create high levels of anxiety later in life. The following symptoms can often be hard to detect, but are essential to be noticed by parents to help prevent a childhood (and future) filled with anxiety:

1. Difficulty sleeping

Notice changes in your child's sleeping patterns, espeically if your child starts talking in their sleep or suddenly doesn't want to go to bed. Extreme tiredness and/or reocurring nightmares can also be a symptom of anxiety in your child.

2. Constant worry

If your child is constantly worried about things that may happen, or has constant fears about going to school, their friends, or their family, this can be a symptom of anxiety. Pay attention and don't brush it off when your child tells you they are afraid.

3. Pain in various parts of the body

Especially headaches and stomach aches without other physical symptoms. A general feeling of "pins and needles" should also be noted.

4. Inability to relax

Along with constant worry, children with anxiety find it difficult to relax. If your child seems anxious in situations where they should feel comfortable, talk to a specialist.

5. Clingy behavior

Children are often very attached to their family members, but as they grow older, usually become more independent. If your child is being excessively clingy, this could be a symptom of anxiety.

6. Mood swings

Pay attention to constantly changing emotions. An anxious child often ranges from extreme joy to uncontrollable sobbing or anger. While mood swings are common in young children, don't just pass them off as being "normal", especially if you notice other symptoms of anxiety.

What you can do

1. Make the home a quiet place

Have a place where your child can feel calm and relaxed. Avoid screaming, loud music, excessive movement, lots of lights or people. Respect their privacy and help give your child a quiet home.

2. Be honest about things going on in the home

If you are going through a problem, explain it to your children in an age appropriate way rather than letting them live unawares. Remember, children can sense when you are stressed out and angry. Leaving those strong emotions unexplained can help encourage anxiety. Eliminate the need for excessive worry by working with your children to find a solution. Children should learn that problems are recognized, faced and conquered with effort and help from loved ones.

3. Talk to them and let them talk

Gaps in information that are filled with rumors only generate fear. Be honest and talk to your children, and let them talk to you in return. Talk about cheerful things and the latest news, so your child understands they can talk to you about anything.

4. Do not yell or punish him

Your child may be irrationally worried or not sleeping well because of some sort of problem they don't understand. Punishing them or yelling does not solve this issue. Approach your child with understanding and love instead.

5. Provide affection and attention

The bigger the problem, the more they need hugs from loving parents. Anxious children need more love, tender words and understanding to help calm their fears.

6. Food and exercise

Boredom can also be a source of stress and anxiety in very active children who can't relax and rest easily. Changing or improving their diet and increasing physical activity can help your child adapt to these intense emotional changes.

7. Talk to a specialist

Visiting a psychologist, a therapist, or even a spiritual guide can also be helpful if you notice symptoms of anxiety in your child. Use their expert advice to help your child navigate these symptoms.

Many pains in your child's future can be avoided if you pay attention to what is happening around them. Notice what your child tells you and what they are silent about to help them have a happy and healthy childhood.

This article has been adapted and translated from the original, "6 señales que tu hijo padece ansiedad y que la mayoría de los padres ignoran," which was published on Familias.com.


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12 totally unusual tactics that will calm your child’s tantrums in seconds https://www.familytoday.com/family/12-totally-unusual-tactics-that-will-calm-your-childs-tantrums-in-seconds/ Fri, 07 Apr 2017 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/12-totally-unusual-tactics-that-will-calm-your-childs-tantrums-in-seconds/ Children kick, scream, cry and whine all to get our attention, but sometimes it becomes too much. Survive these tantrums…

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Tantrums are common between ages two and three - just as children are starting to understand the world around them. They know what they want, but they aren't always able to clearly express themselves, so it's easier for them to cry, kick and shout.

But tantrums don't have to be a part of your child's everyday life. Once parents start to know their child better, they can more easily set limits, discipline and communicate with their child.

Here are some things you can start doing now to limit your child's tantrums in the first place:

Know what caused their tantrum

What triggered their tantrum? You can help avoid a long and confusing screaming session if you know why your child is upset.

Don't give in to the tantrum

Your child learns from your reactions, so if you let them have the candy bar at the grocery store when they cry, they know that all they have to do is cry to get what they want next time.

Don't make it a show

If you're in a public place, try to find somewhere where you can calmly talk to your child without an audience. Sometimes, this isn't an option and that's OK. Other parents will understand; they've experienced public tantrums, too.

Talk when your child is calm

When a child is already in the middle of a tantrum, it's important for you to remain calm and not try to reason with your child. Once their emotions are under control, teach, educate and set limits.

The distraction technique

This technique helps you avoid two things: your child's tantrum and you having to switch your attention back and forth between what you're trying to do and your child's screams.

When your child starts to cry, turns their usually happy face into a dirty scowl and does those things that make your hair stand on end, you can do these 12 things:

1. Invite your child to go to another room

Take your child away from the situation that's making them angry. Even stepping into their bedroom for some privacy can help.

2. Go outside

Let your child play on the playground or run around the backyard to get some of their energy out. It might not solve the problem, but it can help them come back with peace and a clear mind.

3. Sing together

Sing a fun, cheerful, mood-changing song. Dance and sing along to "If You're Happy and You Know It" for a fun way to lighten the mood.

4. If possible, say that you're going to do something and leave

You can invite your child to come along or let them calm down while you are gone. A child who knows this tactic will likely break their tantrum and want to come with you.

5. Tell a story

Tell a story about your child's tantrum, but use something else as the subject, such as a bird or fox. Hearing the situation from another perspective in a fun way can help the child understand what they are doing.

6. Tell a joke

It will improve you and your child's mood before jumping in and solving the problem that's upsetting your child.

7. Call the pet

Let your child pet the cat or dog as you talk through the problem together. Having something else to do can calm your child as you teach them important lessons about managing their emotions.

8. Stand your ground before the tantrum

Before leaving the house, calmly explain where you're going, what you're going to do and what you expect from your child. (I'm going to the store, we are only buying milk and we will not be buying candy or toys, do you understand?) Don't give threats but speak with love and care.

9. Ask your child to express their needs and wants with words

Many times, a child throws tantrums because he or she doesn't have enough words to express themselves. Give your child your full attention so you can help them find the words to share how they feel.

10. Know your child

Nobody knows your child like you do, so think about the things that might cause them stress. When you know what your child wants, you can help prepare them to react the right way.

11. Create a keyword

Come up with a secret word your child can use when they need to tell you something important. This way you can find a private place to talk even when you're around other people. Your child can just say this one word instead of screaming to get your attention.

12. Use your imagination

Once you know why your child is throwing a tantrum, use that knowledge in your favor! Think of creative and silly explanations or distractions to help calm your child. Remember, the important thing about this technique is not to lie or frighten your child, but is to distract them from the "storm" and keep tantrums from becoming a habit.

Work on discipline, limits and love and the nightmare of a tantrum will be just that: a nightmare.

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5 things you will want to know about using a menstrual cup https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/5-things-you-will-want-to-know-about-using-a-menstrual-cup/ Tue, 22 Dec 2015 11:16:49 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-things-you-will-want-to-know-about-using-a-menstrual-cup/ If you are an active, modern woman and nothing stops you-except your period-this information is for you.

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Years ago our grandmothers attached pieces of thick cloth to their underwear with small stitches to prevent leaking periods. If something did happen while girls were playing, they were forced to stay at home and not go out anymore because they were "ladies."

Fortunately, the pharmaceutical industry eventually developed feminine hygiene products, which were quickly accepted and distributed. Disposable sanitary napkins were invented first, which evolved to have sticky "wings" to ensure everything stays in its place. Then tampons were invented of course. And with these and many other changes, more women began to have the comfort and confidence to be more productive in life, education and even sports.

However, the nightmare of "accidents" on clothing or seats still terrorize many woman, and using tampons has been less accepted and assimilated to, especially in Latin cultures. Additionally, the discovery of toxic shock syndrome being a possible side effect of tampon use has made many women reject tampons.

But then, just when we thought we had seen every feminine hygiene innovation, the menstrual cup appeared on the scene offering zero accidents, no health risks and helping our economy and the environment. Want to know how? Keep reading!

What is a menstrual cup?

Simply put, it is a small cup, like a little bell, made of latex or silicone (the latter being the most favored because it does not aggravate latex allergies), which is inserted into the vagina and collects the menstrual flow. There are various sizes: small, medium and large.

The truth is this hygiene product is nothing new. It originated in the 1930s, but for various economic and cultural reasons its use has not spread or been accepted until today.

How is it used?

Its application is simple: the cup easily bends and is very flexible, allowing you to place it in gently. When you buy a cup, you will need to sterilize it with boiling water before you start using it. The first few times you use your cup, you may have a small battle getting used to placing it; but with a little patience, it's easily achieved. Ideally, you should remove the cup every 10 hours: you take it out, dispose of the contents and rinse it, and you're ready to put it in again. When your cycle ends, you just have to wash it and put it in its box or bag until your next period.

Isn't it uncomfortable or painful?

Most likely during the first day, especially during the first hours, you will feel and notice it. But if you stop thinking about it, you can get on with your daily life. The cup shouldn't bother you, and if it's the right size, you shouldn't feel it at all. When you buy it, check which size is recommended for your height and build. When you put the cup in, a vacuum is created, which ensures no surprise runoff or leakage.

Are menstrual cups really as wonderful as they say?

I was very skeptical to try using a menstrual cup, but what convinced me was the promise of not having "accidents" and of performing sports activities fearlessly and comfortably. The truth is after getting over the fear of the unknown, the menstrual cup is fantastic; you begin to see these benefits:

Cost savings

At the beginning you may think the cup is a bit expensive, but if you do the math, it pays for itself in a few months because you won't need to buy hygiene products anymore. You buy the cup once, and you won't have to buy tampons, pads or another cup for at least 10 years.

Less stress

You don't have to worry because no matter how heavy your flow is, the cup has enough capacity to handle it.

Environmentally friendly

They're eco-friendly because you stop using disposable products that pollute the environment. All you need is a little water for washing.

No smell

You will forget about the bad odors characteristic of the period.

Zero accidents

Ah! And your accidents are over! Even just that is worth it.

And the consequences?

The truth is there are no negative consequences associated with its use. Using a menstrual cup prevents many infections and is comfortable and practical.

There are some families where several women use one cup, but this practice is not recommended. Every woman in the family should have her own. It's a worthwhile investment.

On the Internet you can find a lot of information. You can look up how to use the cups, sizes, recommendations, how much they cost and where you can buy them.

I dare you to try a menstrual cup. You will definitely love it.

This article was translated and adapted from the original article, "Y tú, ¿ya usas la copa menstrual?" published on Familias.com.

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5 things men find in the ‘other woman’ https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/5-things-men-find-in-the-other-woman/ Wed, 25 Nov 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-things-men-find-in-the-other-woman/ If your partner is unfaithful, it's not your fault. But these tips can help strengthen a marriage, decreasing the chances…

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When I think of all the good women I've met throughout my life, I consider myself lucky. I've learned many things from them. I want to share with you some advice I've learned from those who have dealt with affairs in their marriages.

Most importantly, know that affairs are not the fault of any of these women-it is the choice and responsibility of their husbands. Relationships are two sided however, and these are some things they have discovered to strengthen their marriage.

1. Time

It's common among married women to worry too much about household management, children, housework, organizing strict schedules and diagraming every minute of the day. It's easy to always be aiming for the picture-perfect family. But these behaviors become damaging to the family and especially to husbands when these routines take priority.

Spend quality time with your husband. Don't put your children ahead of your spouse, and leave your parents out of your relationship. Don't choose laundry over a good talk, and don't decide to scrub the kitchen when you could go on a walk together.

2. Excitement

When we get caught up in daily tasks, we become boring (and even bored). Any woman, regardless of marital status, should have her own life: reading, studying, writing, learning new skills and taking care of herself. Be your own person. Your husband will value your joy, intelligence, hard work, beauty and good humor. When you are interested in yourself, you will become irresistible. People who know how to be themselves are the most interesting.

3. Romantic interest

Many wives believe it's a husband's obligation to love them. It's sad to meet women who believe love is a light that never goes out. What a mistake! To be in love, we must constantly work to nurture that love and not lose the things that made us fall in love with that person. Always find ways to serve your spouse and tell him you love him. Remember, you aren't forced to stay together, but you stay because you want to. You aren't dependent on someone else to be happy, but you can help each other be happy by working at staying in love.

4. Acceptance

Some women are extremely busy "improving" their husbands, but all this does is make their husbands feel they aren't good enough. The desire to improve ourselves needs to come from within. Trying to change others is an act of selfishness. You married a man, not a child who needs to finish being raised.

5. Freedom from judgement

Contrary to what most people think, infidelity in men has little to do with intimate relationships or the physical beauty of women. It's actually common to see that the "other woman" is usually not as beautiful as the wife; she's just happier, more relaxed, less strict and full of life. Men often look for someone to talk to, who will listen and not judge or criticize them.

I will repeat what I said at the beginning: being unfaithful is the perpetrator's decision. It's not your fault. It's the decision of your spouse. But it is your responsibility to work on your self-esteem, improve yourself and do what you can to add value to your relationship.

This article is a translation and adaptation from the original article Lo que los hombres encuentran fuera de casa con otras mujeres.

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Ovarian cancer: The silent killer and what every woman needs to know https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/ovarian-cancer-the-silent-killer-and-what-every-woman-needs-to-know/ Fri, 28 Aug 2015 10:13:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/ovarian-cancer-the-silent-killer-and-what-every-woman-needs-to-know/ ALL women are at risk. Spread the awareness and catch it before it is too late.

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The problems started when I was only in my teens. I began having excessively painful and abnormally long menstrual cycles. My mother soon took me to be examined by a gynecologist, where we found out that my uterus and ovaries were filled with cysts. Years of treatment, biopsies and minor surgery resulted in terrible news: My organs were so overrun that I would most likely never be able to have children.

Time passed. I continued taking the recommended drugs. I got married and, against all odds, became the mother of three daughters. I experienced no complications during the pregnancies, and for several years the cysts seemed to be shrinking. Then I hit my 40s. The cysts grew bigger and got stronger, provoking serious bleeding. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

After my experience, I feel like I must spread awareness of this disease to as many women as I can. Hopefully, someone out there will be able to benefit from my knowledge.

Things to know about ovarian cancer

  • There is no exact or proven cause for ovarian cancer. All women are at risk.

  • Cysts may develop cancer, mainly in ovaries.

  • Pap tests do notdetect ovarian cancer.

  • Ovarian cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, with a high death rate.

  • Over 140,000 women die from ovarian cancer each year.

  • Women often ignore symptoms, and thus do not get diagnosed until they are already at an advanced stage of the cancer.

Risk factors

Childbearing status

The less children you have, the greater your chance of getting ovarian cancer. Having multiple children and breastfeeding has been found to decrease your risk.

Family history

If someone in your family has ever contracted cancer of any kind, your risk may be higher.

Age

Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are most often between 55 and 60 years of age.

Weight

Women who are obese have an increased risk of getting ovarian cancer and a higher risk of dying from it.

Symptoms

  • Very heavy bleeding

  • Increase in abdominal size or persistent bloating

  • A loss of appetite or feeling full quickly

  • Very often menstrual cycles will be irregular and appear or disappear suddenly

  • Feeling tired and having very little energy

  • Digestive problems (which is why there is so much confusion and difficulty making a diagnosis in many cases)

  • Feelings of pressure or pain in lower back and belly

If you are experiencing two or more of these symptoms or have any of the risk factors mentioned above, it is imperative that you visit your doctor.

How can you prevent ovarian cancer?

The answer is simple: Live a healthy lifestyle. Observe and know your body, and pay close attention to any changes it goes through. Cut out canned foods, preservatives and anything containing high amounts of fat from your diet. Take up a sport or create an exercise routine. Try to keep your weight at a healthy level. And if possible, have children and breastfeed.

How can you detect it?

There are currently several tests such as MRI, ultrasound, blood tests, laparoscopy and even a particular type of pregnancy test that can aid in early recognition and intervention of this cancer. With any of these tests, ovarian cancer can be diagnosed in the early stages of development (Remember, as mentioned above, Pap tests do notdetect ovarian cancer).

What if you get diagnosed with ovarian cancer?

First, take a deep breath and feel grateful — grateful because having a diagnosis means you have options. It is much better than catching it too late or not catching it at all. Also, remember that cancer is not a death sentence. And an early diagnosis is a blessing.

Most importantly, do not give up. Get rid of any negative feelings or an attitude of defeat. Believe me, that will not help anything. Instead, battle your cancer with a determination to win. Fight it with chemotherapy or surgery coupled with a good attitude, faith and much hope.

Since my diagnosis, I've been busy improving my life: I eat healthier, run regularly, have fun as much as I can and spread awareness of this disease that so many women have to battle against, as I have done for you today. And let me tell you - I am winning.

This article is an translation and adaption of the original article, "Cáncer de ovario, otro asesino silencioso. 6 señales y 3 datos importantes." It has been republished here with permission.

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5 lessons your children shouldn’t learn from anyone but you https://www.familytoday.com/family/5-lessons-your-children-shouldnt-learn-from-anyone-but-you/ Mon, 20 Jul 2015 09:16:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-lessons-your-children-shouldnt-learn-from-anyone-but-you/ As the saying goes, "if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself." When it comes to…

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There are teachers, classes, church leaders, friends and others in the lives of our children that teach them. Some of these lessons are good, while others aren't that great. My daughters are all grown, and though I look forward to teaching my grandchildren a lesson or two, I feel fortunate to have personally taught my daughters some defining life lessons.

These are the things I found important to teach my children:

Teach your children an important life skill

It can be anything, but know that some of life's most important lessons are best taught through learning a life skill. My dad taught me how to drive, and I later taught my children to drive. It may not sound important, but learning to manage life's successes and difficulties was very important for me to teach my kids, and driving was a great opportunity to teach this. I passed on my knowledge on how to change a tire, care for a car, ask for help without putting myself in danger, follow traffic laws, and how to react in emergencies onto my children. These lessons not only helped when it came to being a safe driver, but also taught the skills necessary to be a responsible adult.

Teach your children about sexuality

School lessons, teachers and others can do it for you, but this lesson should come from a trusted parent. No one knows how to best handle this discussion more than you, for you know your child best. When teaching your daughters this lesson, take this beautiful chance to talk about the miracle of life and motherhood in a personal way. Be prepared to talk about a serious topic with your children, but also open your heart and be open for questions. I guarantee you will establish a more unique, wonderful and trusting relationship with your child.

Teach your children about faith

Nobody ever said life is easy. There are sweet blissful moments in life but also bitter ones. We won't always be there with our child during their trials, so give them the tools they need to face personal battles. Give your little ones the gift of faith from an early age. Teach them to believe, to trust, to expect good things from others. Faith will give them hope, encouragement and safety when they most need it, no matter the situation. This lesson is something your children will use again and again.

Teach them to overcome difficulties

There is power in showing your children you are struggling, but teach them that you are also strong. Whether you have lost your job, lost a family member, are enduring a divorce, or facing a difficult day, teach your children to rise above their situations. Find solutions to your problems with intelligence and patience and give your children a good example to follow for when they are struggling.

Teach them the healing power of forgiveness

This lesson should start early. Teach your children to forgive a classmate or sibling even when they are very young. Prepare them to forgive the mistakes of others. Forgiveness doesn't mean giving in and falling into behaviors that can hurt you, but allows you to be free of the pain that can eat away your soul. Help your children learn to forgive themselves when they have done something wrong. This gift will help your children their whole lives.

Teaching these lessons can't be done in an afternoon or with a quick chat. As a parent, know that you are always teaching through your example. When difficulties come into their lives, they will draw upon the lessons you taught them and overcome their trials. And you will also be rewarded, knowing you taught them the lessons to get through anything.

This article is an adaptation and translation from the original article, "Cinco cosas que debes enseñar a tus hijos personalmente". It has been republished here with permission.

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Don’t let your son get married without giving him this advice https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/dont-let-your-son-get-married-without-giving-him-this-advice/ Fri, 17 Jul 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/dont-let-your-son-get-married-without-giving-him-this-advice/ It's true that times have changed since you got married, but you can still share some advice that every man…

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Mothers are a very important figure in your son's life. The link between a mother and son is one of the most precious and special relationships a woman shares. When her little man grows up and starts paying attention to "other girls," a mom can experience a little jealousy and possessiveness"hence the popular idea that "no wife is perfect for my son."

But if you don't want to become the kind of mother that won't let her son go, realize that one day another woman will come along that your son will love with all his heart. To keep a great relationship with your child once he's married (and to have a strong relationship with your future daughter-in-law) make sure your son hears this advice straight from your lips.

I love you as you are

Your son needs to know you love him and support him. Hearing this lets him know you trust his decision to marry this woman he loves so much. Also, make sure your son knows you will love his wife as your own child.

I will always be your mother

Even when he is married and has children of his own, you will still be his mother. You will look after his wife and their family, but you will also realize he has his own home and life to look after. Let him know you will always be there for him when he needs your help and love.

The most important woman in his life is his wife

Although you love your son and his wife, you realize you are not the most important woman in his life. Visits and calls will make you happy, but you know that visits from his whole family (including your adorable grandchildren) will make you the happiest.

I will respect your space, your independence and your family

Tell your son that in your house, he cannot speak ill of his wife or children. You will not comment for or against issues in their home. Don't ask me to hide things from your wife or to lie for you.

You can always try a little harder

A few years ago, an old friend and his wife told me a story that I know helped them establish a strong and lasting marriage. When this man was ready to propose, he proudly showed his mother the engagement ring he had purchased for his girlfriend. His mother said, "She deserves much better than this, you can try a little harder for her." The young man returned the ring and worked harder to get the best ring he could for his bride-to-be, and then proposed. Throughout their marriage, every time the son told his mother about any difficulties in their marriage, his mother would say the same thing: "You can try a litter harder for her," and has throughout their whole life together.

Be sure to tell your son that he has the ability to work hard for things he loves.

The influence a mother has will help her son and his family. This relationship will strengthen family ties and remain strong for generations.

This article is an adaptation and translation of "No Permitas que tu hijo se case sin hablar de estos detalles". It has been adapted and translated here with permission.

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