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How to Prevent Pregnancy: Birth Control Options, Precautions & more
Becoming a mother is a gift that is coveted by most women at some or the other point in their lives. However, pregnancy is also a huge step in a woman’s life and should not be treated lightly. The good news is that pregnancy is something that’s within your control and can be avoided if you feel like you are not ready for it.
Protective measures while having sex and common contraceptive methods are quite commonly used by responsible couples. Let’s look at the options available for both men and women to prevent a pregnancy.
Methods of Contraception for Women and Men
Several options can be adopted to prevent a pregnancy. Some of these options have been listed below.
Birth Control Options for Women
Let’s explore some of the safest options of birth control available for women:
An intrauterine device or a coil is a good birth control option for women. For one, this can be fitted in by your medical practitioner within five days of having unprotected sex. This method is safe; it can be left in your system for a period of 5 to 10 years, depending on its type, and can help prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
The Morning-After pill is another method that can be used to keep pregnancy at bay. This can be used within 72 hours of having unprotected sex, giving you enough time to use it.
Depo-Provera is becoming quite popular these days. It’s a hormone-based contraceptive injection that’s given every three months. Usually, the muscles in the arms or buttocks are where the contraceptive is injected. It’s of utmost importance that this needs to be repeated every three months without fail for it to be effective.
Sterilisation is another common method that has to be done through a surgical procedure. This is permanent, and therefore, much contemplation is recommended before opting for it.
A diaphragm with spermicide is another device that has to be fitted by a medical professional. This device covers the cervix and helps curtail pregnancy for at least 6 hours. It’s advised not to leave it in for more than 24 hours.
Oral contraceptives are another excellent option for protection. The trick is to make sure that you do not miss your pill. Be advised though, there might be some side effects due to regular usage of these pills.
Apart from tablets to avoid pregnancy, an etonogestrel birth control implant is another option for women. These implants, which are in the form of rubber rods the size of matchsticks, are inserted in the upper arm by a medical professional.
Undergoing a tubectomy is more of a permanent solution when it comes to preventing a pregnancy. Also known as tubal sterilisation, this is a surgical procedure whereby the fallopian tubes of a woman are cut and sealed off. This is a fairly safe method and is known to be quite effective for couples who already have kids.
Birth Control Options for Men
Read on to find out the methods to avoid pregnancy in the form of birth control options for men.
Condoms are perhaps one of the easiest and best methods of protection that men can use during sex.
A vasectomy is a more permanent form of a contraceptive for males. This has to be done surgically and does not stall either erection or ejaculation.
A more manual form of birth control for men is pulling out just before ejaculation. However, this is not recommended as the chances of success are quite low, and this is not a reliable method.
The Rate of Effectiveness of Contraceptives
While all the options listed above are sound choices that can be used to prevent a pregnancy, it is, of course, understood that some methods are more effective than others. The below data should help throw some light on the effectiveness of each method.
Method of Contraception
Accurate Effectiveness in %
Condoms for men
85-87%
Condoms for females
77-80%
Diaphragms teamed with spermicide
78-81%
Contraceptives taken orally
95% and above
Depo-Provera injections
99% and above
Etonogestrel birth control implants
99% and above
Intrauterine devices
Around 99%
Sterilisation through surgery/ Permanent sterilization
99% and above
Morning-After pill/ Emergency birth control
74-76%
Other Precautions to Avoid Pregnancy
Since prevention is, by default, better than cure, some of the best steps to avoid pregnancy have been shared below. Also, note that this might as well be a summary of what has already been discussed. Nevertheless, let’s explore fresh options that can provide you with the best ways to prevent pregnancy.
Never indulge in sexual intercourse without protection.
Choose wisely from among the various choices of contraceptives available.
Sex during your menstrual cycle without protection must be avoided.
Take proper initiatives to keep pregnancy at bay and curb practices such as pulling out before ejaculation as there is no guarantee that sperm hasn’t already reached your egg.
Having sex without protection during the ‘safe period’ can also prove to be trouble sometimes. Any missed calculations can, of course, get you pregnant.
Refrain from bringing exposed genitals in close contact with your partner without protection as there is a high chance that some sperm may end up fertilising your egg.
If you are already taking birth control pills, be regular, and try and ensure that you take them at the same time every day.
When a man is sexually aroused, there is usually some discharge from the penis – known as pre-cum or pre-ejaculate – that betters the act of sex. Nevertheless, this discharge may contain sperm so make sure that your partner does not touch your vagina right after touching his penis to avoid getting pregnant.
Similarly, touching the vagina after handling or touching the condom can increase the risk of pregnancy as any sperm attached to the condom can make their way to the egg in your uterus.
Make sure that you don’t stay engaged for too long after ejaculating (even if you are wearing a condom). There have been cases where the contents of the condom spill into the vagina as the penis goes flaccid after ejaculation.
There are quite a few fruits and herbs which you can eat on a daily basis that will reduce your risk of pregnancy even if you have been careless with protection or birth control devices. Papaya is one such fruit.
In case of crises such as torn condoms or missed pills, ensure you take a morning after or emergency pill that will stop you from getting pregnant.
Steps to Avoid Pregnancy Naturally
In case you are not a big fan of surgical or medical methods to avoid pregnancy, there are a few natural options by which you can still refrain from getting pregnant.
The best place to start is to understand your body and to monitor your period. Since conception is largely governed by fertile periods in your cycle, your best bet is to make sure that on days where you are fertile, you either abstain from having sex altogether or use a method which reduces your chances of conception. Thereafter, you can have sex as normal on the days of your period defined as ‘low risk’. It is critical for you to understand your dates of ovulation, since a few days before, and a few days after ovulation are the days when you must exercise restraint or caution to ensure you don’t get pregnant. Once you begin tracking, allow a few cycles to pass to establish a pattern. Pay attention to the signs your body gives you and make an informed decision thereafter.. Listed below are some ways to help you prevent pregnancy naturally.
1. Assess Your Fertility
There are several measures you can try while assessing your fertility. For starters, you should understand what it means to be fertile. Having sex without protection any time between five days before ovulation and until the day you start ovulating again can get you pregnant. So the bottom line is you should not have sex without protection during this period. Once you understand what fertility is, you should also learn about ovulation. In a woman of reproductive age, the ovary releases an egg every month which travels down the fallopian tube. During this period, if the egg is met by a sperm, it could be fertilised and you could get pregnant. Once you have calculated all the necessary dates and the period when you can have sex without worry, natural contraception can work wonders.
2. Monitor Your Basal Body Temperature
To adopt this method, the first thing to do is to buy a basal thermometer. It’s important to chart your basal temperature (the lowest temperature of your body while it is at rest) during the month for best results. During ovulation, your body tends to have slightly higher temperatures which should also be an indicator of your peak time of fertility. A few points to remember would be to take your temperature first thing in the morning and then to stick to the same time every day. The accurate charting of your basal body temperature will give you proper results only after you have repeated the task for at least three months. The days when your body temperature seems higher than usual are the days when you should have protected sex, to avoid getting pregnant.
3. Check Your Cervical Mucus
This is a rather tricky manner of avoiding a pregnancy, but done properly, it can help you get the results you desire. Cervical mucus is nothing but your usual vaginal discharge that changes several times during the month. To check, insert a couple of your fingers inside your vagina and swipe. You can also use cotton wool for the same. You should start checking on this mucus only after your period is over. The colour, texture, consistency should be duly noted and changes properly charted to know when you are fertile.
4. Track Your Cycle on a Calendar
Probably the most commonly used method there is, it starts with knowing your menstrual cycle. track your period to understand the number of days your cycle lasts. When tracking, consider the day your period starts as Day 1 of your cycle. It’s important that you chart at least 8-9 cycles accurately to establish a pattern. Using this pattern, you can figure out the days on which you’ll be fertile by subtracting 18 from the number of days in your shortest cycle or 11 from the number of days of your longest cycle. The date you find using either of the methods should be the day when your fertile period starts. Needless to say, having sex in that period without contraceptives could lead to pregnancy.
5. Apply What You Find
Natural ways of contraception can never be the result of just one method. It’s best to apply all the methods listed above together to get proper results. It must also be mentioned here that in case you get confused with the calculations, ensure that you use other methods of protection as a safety net. The whole idea of employing the above methods is to find your fertile period and avoid unprotected sex during those dates. Based on your calculations, you will understand which days you can have sex without protection and when to abstain or employ home remedies to avoid pregnancy.
20 Home Remedies to Avoid Pregnancy
To those of you who are not enthusiastic about the idea of artificial or medical means of avoiding pregnancy, here are some natural pregnancy prevention methods that are not only effective but can be done right at home.
Read on to find out how to prevent unwanted future pregnancies effectively with herbs, spices, plants and such without side effects.
1. Neem
This super herb has several uses, one being to prevent pregnancy. Neem is in fact counted as a remedy that reduces the chance of fertilisation by reducing the motility of sperms. It can be used in several forms to curb pregnancy. In men, taking neem tablets leads to temporary sterility, thereby curbing pregnancy. Consumption of neem leaves is effective as is using extracts or oils as a home remedy to avoid pregnancy.
2. Papaya
This fruit is another versatile natural remedy that can help curb pregnancy. Consuming papaya in any form for at least 4-5 days after having unprotected sex will reduce your chances of getting pregnant.
3. Dried Apricots
Consumption of dried apricots right after sex can provide excellent results in curtailing pregnancy. Dried apricots are best taken with honey and water. This pleasantly-flavoured beverage should be consumed for at least a week for best results.
4. Buckwheat
Rutin present in buckwheat prevents pregnancy by evading fertilisation, if consumed properly with water. Make sure that you consume at least 500 grams of buckwheat with warm water every day to get best results.
5. Vitamin C
The element that works wonders for your skin can also help keep pregnancy at bay. Take around 1500 grams of Vitamin C in the form of a capsule to reduce your chances of getting pregnant.
6. Cinnamon
This spice not only helps to add flavour to your food but also acts as a wonderful home remedy to curtail pregnancy. Cinnamon water stimulates the uterus and is therefore advised to be taken after sex. It’s recommended that you soak cinnamon sticks overnight in water.
7. Parsley
Warm some of this extraordinary herb in water and bring to a boil. The water can be drunk on its own or add a bit of sugar to add some flavour.
8. Angelica
This is also known as Dong Quai. Consume this for at least a fortnight to expand your uterus and stimulate the contractions.
9. Carrot Seeds
A rather old-school method to refrain from getting pregnant, it’s advised that you grind the seeds, mix with water and drink. A tip to get best results is increasing the intake of water for the next few days.
10. Cotton Root Bark
Dry this very effective root and mix it with hot tea or warm water and drink. It’s advised to take this concoction for at least seven days for best results.
11. Ginger Root
Drinking two cups of warm water which has been boiled with grated ginger root can help avoid pregnancy.
12. Thistles
Used as a remedy by Quinault Indians, thistles are believed to be a contraceptive. Just boil thistles in water until the bitter taste is infused and drink it.
13. Indian or Wild Turnip
This is a medicinal plant whose root can be used to control pregnancy. Dried powder of the root should be mixed in ½ cup warm water and stored. Drinking it twice a day gives the desired results
14. Queen Anne’s Lace
Also called wild carrots, these plants produce seeds which can be consumed in the form of tea, or even whole for contraception. However, they are best avoided if you have a kidney ailment or gallstones, or if you are breastfeeding.
When you’re trying to avoid pregnancy, choose a method or a combination of methods above to reduce the risk of a conception. Having said that, remember that no method is failsafe. Sometimes, it might be best to combine both home remedies and the usual methods of protection to ensure that pregnancy is kept at bay.
Also Read: Best Home Remedies To Avoid Pregnancy Read more
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BREAST FEEDING IS A BOON.....
Why to opt for breast feeding..?
The milk formation in some women starts to happen before a month or so of delivery. You will not even realise but there will be few drops coming out from your breasts which then forms a layer on your nipples. You are required to clean your nipples gently with warm water while taking a shower. Do not be harsh and make sure not to use your nails to prick. It is very important for you to follow this as it might be one of the reasons you are unable to breast feed as the openings of your nipples are dried up and hence would affect the flow of milk.
Initial stage of breastfeeding
The first few days after the birth of your baby are very important and even difficult. I personally faced a little difficulty as being a first time mother I did not even know how to hold the baby for feeding and how to lock the baby’s mouth to the nipples so that she can suck the milk. This process will be painful as the babies suck it really hard and your milk is not in a proper flow yet. You will observe that the milk is coming in form of drops on the first and second day. However, once you feed your baby the milk will start coming in a flow and that will also make the process pain free for you. Give it time, once you and the baby get comfortable with it things will be quite easier.
There are some women who are unable to breast feed their babies due to various complications. These aresome reasons why women are unable to do breast feeding:
There is less milk supply which is not sufficient to fill the baby’s stomach.
Pre term delivery
Complications due to C section delivery
Some women willingly do not want to breast feed as they think it will cause sagging of breasts.
It is said that mother’s milk is best for the baby however, it is great not only for the baby but also for the mothers. Do you know that according to a study published in the journal of Reviews in Obstetrics & Gynecology, women who don’t or can’t breastfeed face way a higher risk when it comes to cancer?
Advantages of breast feeding FOR THE MOTHER:
There are more chances of conceiving again soon after your delivery. If the mother chooses to breast feed, the hormones which are subsequently produced don’t let egg formation happen. If she chooses not to breast feed the ovulation process starts and then she gets her period which means she is again ready for another pregnancy. This can also harm her uterus and overall well-being as giving birth to a baby makes your body weak.
It is seen that women who get pregnant again soon after delivery have higher chances of getting ovarian cancer. Hence, if you are breast feeding it can save you from ovarian cancer as well as breast cancer.
If you are breast feeding your baby you have less chances of gaining weight after delivery. When you are breast feeding more of your energy is used in producing milk due to which there will be a loss in your weight. Breast feeding helps you burn 500-700 calories per day. So if you want to lose your post pregnancy weight you need to breast feed.
Breast feeding helps you in reducing the bleeding after your delivery. The women who don’t breast feed their uterus takes time to come back to its original shape or position however, this happens sooner in women who breast feed.
Some women face depression after delivery due to sleeplessness, loss of appetite, intense irritability hence, feel lonely. This can also affect your bond with the baby. If you are breast feeding you have better chances to bond with your baby which will help you not being depressed.
Advantages of breast feeding FOR THE BABY:
Breast feeding contains everything that a baby needs for the first 6 months in all the right proportions. The first milk that is produced is a wonder food for your baby and cannot be replaced with formula milk.
Breast milk helps in increasing your baby’s immunity. It is loaded with antibodies which helps your baby fight off viruses and bacteria.
Breast fed babies self regulate their milk intake. They are better at eating only until they have satisfied their hunger, which helps them develop healthy eating patterns.
Breast milk is easy for the baby’s stomach which causes less stomach upset, diarrhea and constipation as compared to formula milk.
The skin to skin contact between you and your baby while breast feeding will bring you closer to your baby. This will help your baby feel more protected and will help you create a better bond with them.
Breast feeding will keep you and your baby healthier and happier.
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Essential Vitamins That Will Make Your Hair Grow Faster
Having long, beautiful, and shiny hair is what all women dream of. It's hard to look our best if our hair is in bad shape. Similar to your other body parts, your hair also needs essential nutrients to grow and to be healthy. If your goal is to grow your hair and keep your scalp healthy, then read on.
Which Vitamins Are Good for Your Hair?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to hair growth in individuals. Your hair reflects the state of your health and immunity. But there is one thing we can agree on - hair growth depends on a steady supply of the right nutrients in appropriate proportions. There are a few vitamins that can make your hair healthy and strong. Find out which are these.
1. Vitamin A
Your body needs Vitamin A, so do your hair follicles.
How It Helps
Vitamin A leads to increased cell growth which directly influences your hair growth. It leads to the production of sebum which is known to moisturize and keep your hair healthy. If your body lacks Vitamin A, you'll notice an increase in hair fall, while an overdose of this will also result in the same. The key to healthy hair is finding a balance with regards to its intake.
Dietary Source
To meet your body's requirements of Vitamin A, you should eat carrots, spinach, kale, and animal products like eggs, milk, and yoghurt. Cod liver oil is also a good source of Vitamin A.
2. Niacin
Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that is popularly referred to as Vitamin B3. It is one of the essential vitamins that can make your hair thick.
How It Helps
Niacin provides oxygen to your hair follicles. It opens up the blood vessels on your scalp and stimulates hair follicle growth. A diet lacking in this vitamin can result in weight gain and thinning of hair. This nutrient also turns carbs into energy and boosts blood circulation to the scalp. Thus this vitamin will help in weight loss and hair growth.
Dietary Source
Good dietary sources of niacin include mushrooms, beef, shellfish, nuts, sunflower seeds, beets, and dairy products.
3. Biotin
Biotin is a member of the B Vitamins family and is water-soluble. It is also referred as Vitamin H and is one of the hair growth vitamins that work fast.
How It Helps
Biotin deficiency can lead to thinning of hair as well as hair fall. Although biotin deficiency is rare, it may happen. The protein called keratin makes up the structure of our hair. Biotin enhances the keratin infrastructure of our body. Thus, it helps in hair growth and reducing hair fall.
Dietary Source
Getting biotin is easy if you're consuming a well-rounded diet. Good dietary sources of this key nutrient include organ meats, salmon, dairy products, avocados, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower.
4. Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of the rare vitamins for preventing hair loss and is obtained exclusively from animal products.
How It Helps
Vitamin B12 is responsible for red blood cell formation in the body and carries oxygen to the scalp and brain regions. Besides the cognitive benefits like improved mood and memory, a deficiency in this nutrient has shown to result in hair loss. An important factor to remember is that since this is a water-soluble vitamin, you need it daily. If you take supplements, its absorption depends on an individual's health. For example, out of a 500mcg Vitamin B-12 tablet, only 10mcg is absorbed and used by the body. This is why you have to obtain it from foods more instead of supplements.
Dietary Source
Plant-based foods aren't a good source of Vitamin B 12, with the only exception being yeast. You can obtain B-12 from animal products like organ meats, tuna, low-fat yoghurt, and fortified breakfast cereals.
5. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is responsible for collagen production in the body, a mineral that is key to healthy hair growth.
How It Helps
The deficiency of Vitamin C in your body can lead to drying and splitting of hair. This, in turn, leads to hair loss, thus being not directly responsible. Vitamin C also supplies antioxidants which fight against free radicals in the body and protect your hair follicles.
Dietary Source
Good dietary sources of Vitamin C include kiwis, oranges, pineapples, winter squashes, and citrus fruits. Your diet should include at least five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables daily to meet your required intake.
6. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin and is necessary for healthy hair, skin, and bones.
How It Helps
Vitamin D doesn't directly influence the hair growth but it does wake up any dormant hair follicles in the scalp. Sometimes hair may grow and may not. But the good news is that you will notice a decrease in hair loss when you start eating Vitamin-D rich foods.
Dietary Source
Good dietary sources of Vitamin D include fish like salmon and swordfish, mushrooms, ragi, fortified orange juice, fortified milk, and grains. Exposing your skin to the sun is the direct way of acquiring it but be sure to use sunscreen to protect yourself from the UV rays.
7. Vitamin E
Vitamin E can give shine to your hair and prevent frizzy hair.
How It Helps
Vitamin E has antioxidant properties which are known to protect your hair follicles against free radical damage. One of the key vitamins for preventing hair loss, it has been shown to add shine to your hair and provide an extra layer of protection against the harmful UV rays.
Dietary Source
Vitamin E is found abundantly in foods like green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, vegetable oils, and fortified breakfast cereals. Our favourite sources include roasted almonds, steamed spinach, wheat germ oil, and peanut butter.
8. Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins include a blend of essential nutrients like iron, folic acid, Omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin - all of which are crucial for healthy hair, nails, and skin.
How It Helps
Women who are of child-bearing age are recommended to start taking prenatal vitamins. Doctors usually give these prenatal hair growth vitamins while pregnant. If you want strong, shiny, and long-lasting hair, start taking prenatal vitamins.
Dietary Source
Since prenatal vitamins are marketed as supplements, most women take these in the form of pills or capsules. If you want these vitamins from natural sources, consume a well-balanced and varied diet that includes sources like fish, liver, organ meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, and nuts and seeds.
FAQs
When it comes to achieving strong and healthy hair, there are some additional things you need to know. Here are some commonly asked questions by our readers.
1. Are External Supplements Safe for Hair?
Yes. Most external supplements for hair are safe when taken along with a healthy and balanced diet. However, just taking supplements and eating the wrong foods won't help you.
2. Which Other Nutrients Foster Hair Growth?
Some of the other nutrients which foster hair growth are:
B-complex vitamins
You can get B-complex vitamins from foods like barley grass powder, wheatgrass powder, whole-grains, and dark leafy vegetables.
Zinc
You can get meet your body's requirements of zinc by eating plant-based foods. You should include nuts and seeds like almonds and walnuts, fruits like avocados and bananas, and legumes such as mung beans and other lentils in your diet.
Selenium
Brown rice and Brazil nuts are the best sources of selenium. However, you can also acquire this from animal meats like turkey, beef, and shellfish.
Iron
An iron deficiency not only leads to anaemia but hair loss too. Just add a couple raisins and dried fruits like dates to your diet to get enough. Animal meats are a good source of iron such as beef and chicken.
Protein
Pea protein powder, whey protein, and other protein powders are available for those who train hard and want to supplement. You can get your overall protein by eating a balanced and varied diet every day. Increase the egg yolks and meats and you won't have to worry.
Today, you can obtain vitamins for hair growth through supplements too, but it recommended that you obtain it from natural sources. Eat the right foods to meet your recommended daily allowance (RDA).
Also Read:
Homemade Hair Oils to Use for Strong and Beautiful Hair
Foods to Eat for Getting Smooth and Silky Hair
Do and Dont's for Daily Hair Care Read more
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क्रिसमस गया तो क्या ? हम अब भी एक दूसरे के सांता क्लॉज बन सकते हैं
एक समय की बात है, इंदौर शहर के समीप राजेंद्रनगर की एक बस्ती में किरण नामक लड़का अपने पिताजी के साथ रहता था । उसकी परवरिश मध्यम परिवार में हुई, उसके पिताजी दिनानाथ के पास अधिक धन या संपत्ति नहीं थी और न ही ज्यादा अमीर थे, पर हां फैक्ट्री में काम करके इतना तो कमा ही लेते थे कि गुजर-बसर हो जाती, और "हां उन्हें स्वयं पर पूर्ण विश्वास था कि वे अपने बलबूते पर बेटे को उचित रूप से शिक्षित कर एक काबिल इंसान अवश्य ही बनाएंगे ।"
उनकी पत्नी का तो पहले ही स्वर्गवास हो चुका था, पर दोनों की जिंदगी हंसी-खुशी से व्यतीत हो रही थी । किरण बहुत होनहार था, लेकिन उसका कोई नजदीकी मित्र नहीं था !
हमेशा वह सोचता कि कोई तो ऐसा मित्र बने, जिसके साथ वह अपने मन की बात साझा कर सके, खेल सके, खुशियां बांट सके और कोई भी दु:ख मुसीबत आए तो एक-दूसरे का सहारा बन सके ।
किरण की कक्षा में प्रकाश भी पढ़ता था, वह बहुत शानो-शौकत हमेशा ही दिखाता ! अपने पिता के कमाए पैसे बड़ी आसानी से खर्च कर देता । प्रकाश के पिता प्रसिद्ध व्यापारी थे ।
किरण का कोई मित्र नहीं होने के कारण वह उदास रहता था । वह अकेला स्कूल जाता और अकेला ही वापस आ जाता । "वह हमेशा कक्षा में प्रथम ही आता, जिससे प्रकाश और उसके मित्र उससे चिढ़ते थे ।"
एक दिन किरण ने सोचा कि क्यों न प्रकाश से मित्रता करने के लिए मैं ही पहल करूं और उसने प्रकाश के पास जाकर दोस्ती के लिए हाथ आगे बढ़ाया, पर प्रकाश अपने बिगडे़ मित्रों के साथ किरण का मजाक उड़ाते हुए जोर-जोर से हंसने लगा व उसके दोस्त भी हंसने लगे ! फिर किरण रोते हुए घर वापस आया और पिताजी को सारी बात बताई । पिताजी ने समझाते हुए कहा बेटा ! ऐसी जरा-जरा सी बातों से परेशान नहीं हुआ करते, ये तो समय का फेरा है । सबकी परिस्थिति एक जैसी नहीं होती, पर किसी का ऐसे मजाक नहीं उड़ाना चाहिए, क्या पता वक्त कब किस तरफ करवट बदल ले ?
लेकिन तुम्हें ऐसे निराश भी नहीं होना है ! अपना पूरा ध्यान अध्ययन में लगाते हुए जीवन में असली सांता क्लॉज बनने की कोशिश करो । 25 दिसंबर को क्रिसमस के त्यौहार पर बच्चों के प्यारे सांता क्लॉज गिफ्टस की पोटली बांटते हैं, क्रिसमस ट्री सजाए जाते हैं, जिंगल्स बेल की आवाज चारो ओर गूंजती है और फिर तोहफों की बरसात होती है ! पर ये सब नकली सांता क्लॉज बनकर किया जाता है, बेटा किरण तुम्हें तो अपनी विद्या रूपी किरण से असली सांता क्लॉज बनना है ।
कहा जाता है कि बरसों पहले जब सांता क्लॉज ने जब रेंडियरों पर झिलमिलाती हुई मैजिक डस्ट डाली, तो वे फुर्र से उड़ गए । मैजिक डस्ट छिड़कने से रेंडियर क्रिसमस लाईट की स्पीड़ से उड़ने लगते, ताकि सांता हर बच्चे के पास पहुंचकर उन्हें गिफ्ट दे सकें । बच्चे गहरी नींद में सो जाते हैं ! तो सांता तोहफा रखकर अगले बच्चे के घर निकल जाते हैं । आज से करीब डेढ़ हजार साल पहले जन्मे संत निकोलस को असली सांता और सांता का जनक माना जाता है ! "वे चाहते थे कि क्रिसमस और नए साल के दिन गरीब-अमीर सभी खुश रहें, उन्हें बच्चों से खास लगाव था, इसलिए वे गरीबों के घर जाकर खान-पान की चीजें और खिलौने बांटा करते ! वे हमेशा सबको खुश देखना चाहते थे ।"
फिर दूसरे दिन किरण स्कूल गया तो प्रकाश ने उसे चिढ़ाने के लिए कक्षा में चिल्लाकर कहा भाई ......मैं तो क्रिसमस के दिन पार्टी रख रहा हूं, मेरे सभी दोस्त कृपया इस पार्टी में जरूर आएं ।
कुछ दिनों बाद नया वर्ष आने वाला था और प्रकाश के मन में यही था, कि अब तो क्रिसमस की पार्टी और उसके बाद नए साल की पार्टी दोस्तों के साथ करूंगा और किरण को ऐसे ही चिढ़ाते हुए बेइज्जत करूंगा, पर कहते हैं न साथियों ज्यादा खुश भी नहीं होना चाहिए और वह भी दूसरों का मजाक उड़ाकर आप कभी खुश नहीं रह सकते । "ऐसी खुशी तो चार दिन की चांदनी फिर अंधेरी रात जैसी होती है ।"
क्रिसमस के दिन प्रकाश के पार्टी की तैयारियां शुरू रहती हैं, पूरे घर को भी लाईटिंग से सजाया जाता है और प्रकाश सांता क्लॉज बनकर सबको गिफ्ट बांटने की पोटलियां बनाता रहता है अपने दोस्तों के साथ । "किरण भी पिताजी के बताए अनुसार त्यौहार की खुशियां मनाने इस पार्टी में शामिल होता है ।"
पार्टी शुरू होती है, सभी दोस्त पार्टी का आनंद उठाते हैं ! पर जैसे ही प्रकाश सांता क्लॉज बनकर तोहफे बांटना शुरू करता है और बांटते-बांटते पिताजी के पास पहुचते ही वे प्रकाश के कंधे पर सिर रखकर एकदम से बेहोश हो जाते हैं । प्रकाश को घबराहट के मारे कुछ भी समझ में नहीं आ रहा था कि वह क्या करे ? एक ओर पार्टी चल रही थी और अचानक ये क्या हो गया ? तब उसके सब दोस्त तमाशा देखते खड़े रहते हैं, इस मुश्किल घड़ी में कोई मदद करने सामने नहीं आता, सिर्फ किरण ने साथ दिया प्रकाश का और कहा ऐसे समय में घबरा मत, थोड़ा धैर्य से काम ले और दोनों तुरंत ही उनको समीप के अस्पताल उपचार हेतु लेकर जाते हैं ।
डॉक्टर द्वारा पूर्ण जांच करने के उपरांत प्रकाश को बताया जाता है कि अच्छा हुआ समय रहते आप पिताजी को जल्दी ले आए, नहीं तो बहुत देर हो चुकी होती । "अब वे खतरे से बाहर हैं और एक हफ्ते में उपचार के दौरान पूर्ण रूप से स्वस्थ होकर घर वापस जा सकेंगे ।"
यह बात सुनते ही प्रकाश की आंखों से अश्रुओं की धारा बहने लगी कि यदि किरण ने समय पर साथ नहीं दिया होता तो आज वह अपने पिता को खो देता ! आज तक जिन दोस्तों के साथ मैने किरण का मजाक उड़ाया, आज मुसीबत के समय वही मित्र मेरे काम आया । "इतने में किरण ने प्रकाश को चुप कराते हुए गले लगाया और कहा मुझे आज सच्चा मित्र मिल गया है, जिसकी मुझे बरसों से तलाश थी ।"
"प्रकाश के पिताजी की हालत भी अब पहले से बेहतर थी और नया वर्ष भी आ चुका था । प्रकाश और किरण दोनों उनको खुशी-खुशी घर वापस ले जा रहे थे ।"
"आज प्रकाश को मिला किरण रूपी असली सांता क्लॉज" ऐसे ही आप भी बने ।
आरती अयाचित
स्वरचित एवं मौलिक
भोपाल Read more
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Stop Burning Crackers - It Is Time to Think About Our Children's Health Seriously!
As much as fireworks look beautiful in the night sky and the sparkle of Anar twinkles in your eyes, Or jumping on the sparks of chakhri takes you back to your childhood, And lighting 1000 ki ladi on the road makes you a hero in your gali.
Pause and think, is it really worth the pollution we are producing?
Locking our dogs indoors or stuffing cotton in our babies ears, Coughing because of the crackers smoke or rushing indoors for fresh air!
For an evening of fun and frolic, are we willing to compromise on weeks of healthy mornings?
Pause and think, aren’t we being too selfish and ignorant?
We are practically living in a gas chamber here in India, yet we don’t learn! We are willing to spend a fortune on statues but doing nothing to clear the deadly smog! China has created the biggest air purifier tower scaling 100 meters tall and the scientists at China’s Institute of Earth Environment have claimed that the tower has already improved the air quality of the city across the area of 10 square kilo meters. Moreover, the tower is capable of producing 10 million cubic meters of fresh air per day, while bringing the air quality to a moderate level on the most polluted days.
Just imagine! And what do we have here? A government hell bent on wasting funds and a population refusing to budge! Can we atleast try on a personal level to make the city we are living in better for our children and promise them a cleaner country?
Here's What You Can Do at Your Level
We are tech savvy nation, install an air visual app which keeps you posted on smoke levels in your region.
Plant trees in your area.
Plant air purifying plants at your home and at your workplace.
Buy an air purifier for your home.
Use a portable air purifier in your car.
When sending your child to school, make sure they wear masks.
Introduce broccoli to your kids. It is helpful in flushing toxins out of your body.
Resort to turmeric milk on days the pollution level is too high.
Carpool whenever you can.
Don’t burst crackers, trust me a wedding/function/ festival will not be dimmed if you don’t burn them!
These are all the points that were at the top of my head, please feel free to add to this or correct me if I am wrong.
Our child’s healthy future is in our hands!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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A very cute easy to handle, sipper cup with handles from babyhug
Your Name:
Amrita Singh
Age & Gender of child:
1 year old, Male baby
Product Name:
Babyhug Hard Spout Non Spill Sipper Cup With Handle Dark Blue
Introduction -
I have introduced bottle little late to my baby not immediately after the birth and it was an easy transition. He loves sippers more those with the handles as he can feed himself on his own which toddlers of his age generally enjoy the most. To feed themselves. He loves to use it and drinks water on his one holding the handles so well.
I really do not have to worry about anything. All i do is fill the bottle with clean water and job is done. It comes with a very cute shape and size, as its tiny my baby loves it more. Bottle is strong and comes with soft nipples.
I have been truly in love with these sippers which come with handles. Because My baby loves to hold it by himself and like to drink water or any fluid.
We dont have to worry about any spillage, and he easily uses it
It is geey easy to work with, my baby roams the whole house drinking and sipping on his favourite drinks. He doesn’t need any support as the handles does the job and he can easily hold them and feed himself.
With this sipper his water intake has increased and keeps him well hydrated which otherwise is a task when he doesnt wanna eat anything and just play.
Just a suggestion,The color combo could have been better and nothing else as it is good in every other aspect. It is anticolic and soft for babies who are teething.
The bottle is strong and very cute. I love to see my baby hold it and he just doesnt let go of this bottle. May be he finds it cute too.
Highly recommend babyhug products as I have been using there products and they have my heart and recommendations.
Parameter
Rating
Features
4/5
Product Design
4.5/5
Performance (basis features)
5/5
Value for Money
4/5
Read more
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
20 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
8 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is better to avoid this at this time and also if you want to eat burger then it is better to make it a home . Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
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Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
19 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
13 hours ago
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Read moreDr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
11 hours ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
continue antibiotics regularly
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. Hello dr meri beti 6 days ki hai or use feed karwane ke bad nose or muh se milk bhar aa raha hai to aesa kyu kr rahi hai….me kya Dr ko dikhau kya???
Sai Prasanthi R L
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Rashmi has added a new answer
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Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
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