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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new birth control pill that will allow women to delay their menstrual cycle for up to three months, instead of three weeks. The new pill, to be marketed under the name
'Seasonale', is said by the FDA to be as safe as standard birth control pills, which can increase the risk for blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. |
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Fear of discomfort is one reason women may choose not to have
their recommended annual mammogram. Yet, there are a few simple
things a woman can do to ease any possible discomfort she may
feel during this brief imaging procedure.
Hold off on coffee, tea, even soft drinks
Caffeine has a tendency to make a
woman's breasts tender and lumpy, potentially making the
mammogram uncomfortable. Avoid drinking coffee and tea, unless
it's decaffeinated, for a week prior to a mammogram. Other items
containing caffeine include diet drinks, chocolate and even some
common over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Be sure to read
the label of any OTC medications before you take them prior to a
scheduled mammogram.
Steer clear of perfumes, talcum powder
Deodorant, talcum powder, perfumes
and oils may leave a residue that can be picked up by the
X-rays, obscuring the mammogram and possibly interfering with
the results. Ultimately, this means a woman could need a second
mammogram. Do not use these products on the day of the scheduled
mammogram. |