Compliment your man to have a good sex life

Here's a list of things you can say to your man, to let him know that you appreciate him and that he's special

Like the ones from the opposite sex, women are accustomed to receiving compliments - from the random guy at the pub to the street whistler! On the other hand, men rarely get a compliment. So fire off a meaningful compliment to your man and make way for a steaming night ahead.

Boy, you can work it!
Tell your man how awesome he is in the bedroom - this one definitely ranks at the top of his list! A guy dies to hear how good he is at the skills he works so hard to perfect.

What would I do without you?
Guys love to feel needed. Whether it is to help you understand bank work or simply open a jam jar — it is one of the greatest feelings for a man that you can't live without them. Cuddle him and tell him it would have been impossible for you to do anything without him.

Crave to spend more time with you
Sometimes you need to connect with his inner being as well. No matter how much you compliment on his looks or his skills - your efforts will go waste if you don't let him know how much you love him and want to be with him. Tell him that it is his innate characteristics that draw you closer to him.

You are excellent at your job!
Praising your guy's brain power is a must! Every guy wants to know that he is awesome at his task. Go that extra mile and tell him how much you admire him for the way he shows his dedication and loyalty towards his work. This one will touch him....really!

You're so freaking hot!
This is one compliment that will instantly lift his spirits. Complimenting a guy on his good looks is okay, but it is a different thing altogether to tell him what makes him so desirable - serve up his accolade, gently touch his body parts to add an extra sizzle to it.

Is Your Girl Virgin and Is Virginity a must for happy marriage? Find out

From time immemorial a woman's virginity has been her prized possession. Throughout history one will read about cultures across the world placing a high value on a a woman's virginity. But times are changing and for an increasing number of young men and women, sex is no longer the kind of taboo that it earlier used to be. And much to our older generation's charging, pre-marital sex is a definite reality of our times. 

In fact, these days, couples who are in a relationship have no qualms about getting sexually intimate with each other even though there may be no guarantee that the relationship will culminate into marriage. However, when it does come to the question of marriage, especially in the case of arranged marriages, a woman with a sexually active history still raises eyebrows and sets tongues wagging. What then is the big deal about virginity and how does this kind of a mentality hamper the lives of numerous women? 

According to Dr Vatsa, gynaecologist and sex counsellor, this kind of mentality is largely because our traditional values are still strongly embedded in us. "One of the most common questions I get, till date, is 'How do I know that my bride or girlfriend is a virgin?' The only answer that I have to such questions is that there is no way to know," says Dr Vatsa. According to him, it's just the man's and his family's inflated ego that results in such unrealistic demands. How then, does our traditional culture not hamper couples from engaging in pre-marital sex? "Once a couple is engaged, it's like a license for marriage so they feel they can do anything," he opines. 

"It's actually not such a big deal. However, I still get men who complain to me saying that the wife did not bleed on the first night and hence, they suspect that she's not a virgin. The truth is that the presence of the hymen which ruptures (resulting in the bleeding) is not a sure shot sign of virginity. Some women are born without it, there there are those for whom it is so elastic that it never ruptures while for some it is so fragile that a slightly intense activity may have ruptured it without them even realising it. It is just not possible to access whether a girl is a virgin or not by just examining her except if she's been through a pregnancy or if she admits to having sexual intercourse," says sexologist Dr Tony. 

He goes on to add that in a relationship, if a couple is to make it work successfully, it is more important for the couple to worry about virtues like trust and honesty. "If a woman admits to a sexually active past, it shouldn't be held against her. The very fact that she's even admitting it, even though she could have very well hidden it, means that she is honest and that's all that should matter," he says. 

An intact hymen is not a sure sign of virginity. 

A woman's hymen can be ruptured by non-sexual activities like intense sports, dancing, sitting astride on two wheelers, etc. 

It is not necessary for a virgin to bleed the first time she has sex. In fact, is one goes by the statistics, only 42 per cent of women do so. 

With the current advances in medical technology, a plastic surgeon can quite easily reconstruct a layer of tissue to resemble the hymen (the procedure is called Hymenoplasty). 

Remember, virginity and chastity are not the only measures to base a happy marriage on, honesty and trust are far more important traits that both partners should possess. 

Are you a Smoker?

Are you among those who use cigarettes but don't consider themselves to be smokers? You then belong to the category of 'non-identifying smokers (NIS)'. 

Researchers at University of California (UC),San Diego report there is a surprisingly large number of people who say they use cigarettes but don't like them to be called smokers. 

The phenomenon has both individual and social ramifications. 

"For individuals, the behaviour puts them at many of the same health risks as identified smokers," said Wael K Al-Delaimy, professor at the UC San Diego's department of family and preventive medicine. 

"There is a risk for such smokers to continue to smoke and be adversely impacted by the tobacco they smoke. They do not seek any assistance nor do they plan to quit because they falsely believe they are not smokers," explained Al-Delaimy. 

Almost 22 percent of these smokers consumed tobacco on a daily basis. 

In their analysis, Al-Delaimy and colleagues defined NIS as people who had smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime, reported smoking at least one day in the past 30 days or who said they smoked at least "some days". 

In all cases, when asked if they considered themselves to be a smoker, the respondents replied 'No'. 

The younger NIS are typically college students who smoke as a means of social facilitation and who believe they can quit at any time. 

Older NIS belong to the marginalised parts of society who see little advantage in identifying themselves as smokers or providing accurate reports of their smoking behaviour, said the study that appeared in the journal Tobacco Control..

10 essentials to have before a baby’s birth

Advice for expecting moms on the must-haves to stack up on before the newborn arrives

You've read books on what to expect when you're pregnant from cover to cover, and have decorated the baby room with flourish. But have you made a list of the most essential items you'll need when the baby comes home? Read through this list of the absolute must-haves.

1. Crib
Find a crib with a mattress and crib sheets that are fitted. Look for one that is comfortable and secure enough to hold a bonny baby.

2. Bouncy seat
A bouncy seat is required since you won't be able to put your baby in her crib every time you go over to the kitchen to cook, or the bathroom to the do laundry. Find a simple and regular sized model for the newborn. Bouncy seats are mobile so you can even bring one into the bathroom while taking a shower.

3. Formula
Irrespective of whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby, keep a few cans of milk-based formula handy in the kitchen cabinet for emergencies - like delays getting home from an errand. Before you stock up, though, make sure the brand suits your newborn.

4. Feeding bottles
You don't need many if you are nursing the infant yourself. Otherwise, you will need about 10 bottles a day. This number sounds bloated since you could consider washing and reusing the bottles. However, having a few extras will save you the time taken to wash them frequently. Pick full-size bottles since the baby will grow out of tiny ones pretty soon.

5. Diapers
Decide whether you want to use disposable diapers or cloth. With cloth, have a set of 24 in the beginning. As for disposable diapers, get a pack of newborn size and two packs of size one.

6. New car seat
This one's for car owners, of course. Put the baby car seat at the top of your priority list since hospital staff is usually not allowed to let you drive out without one.

7. Digital thermometer
Since babies can't mouth their unease, it is important to be able to take your newborn's temperature. If you infant's fever gets serious, it could spell trouble. Get a basic digital thermometer that you can use rectally.

8. Breast pump
Using a breast pump to fill bottles takes the pressure off you so your husband - or parents - can feed the child when you are busy. If you are nursing the child, have one ready when you get home from the hospital.

9. Diaper rash cream
Diaper rash is a common problem with most newborns. If you don't have enough time to go to the supermarket, use petroleum jelly.

10. Maxi-pads
This one's for new mothers. Pick up two packages of ultra-absorbent maxi-pads for the post-delivery period. The locia discharge slows down in two or three weeks, so get a box of panty liners too.

Alarm signs that spell cancer

If you've been experiencing more than one of these symptoms regularly, get yourself checked

They are common symptoms and can be passed off as your body getting to grips with every day tiredness. But experts warn that if you notice any other major changes in the way your body functions or feels, you should see a doctor, especially if the changes persist or get worse. It may not be cancer, but any major change in your body is cause for concern.

Unexplained weight loss 
If you are losing weight because you are dieting or exercising, that's fine. But if you find yourself losing weight with no change in your lifestyle habits, this is an unexplained weight loss and it can be associated with several cancers including those of the pancreas and stomach.

Fever 
A persistent fever may be an early sign of blood cancers like lymphoma or leukaemia. If you experience persistent fever, you should see a doctor. Even if it's not cancer, it must be treated seriously.

Pain 
Although pain can have many causes, persistent headaches can be an early sign of brain cancer and back pain can be a sign of rectal or ovarian cancer. If you start experiencing persistent pain, talk to your GP.

A nagging cough 
If you notice a cough or hoarseness that just won't go away, it could be a sign of lung or larynx cancer. It is more likely that you are experiencing seasonal allergies, but run tests to be sure.

Lumps in the body 
If you find lumps in your skin, go see a dermat. Be especially wary of lumps in the breast, testicles, or near lymph nodes. Don't freak out if you find lumps on your arms, legs, or other parts of the body though. They might just be harmless sebaceous cysts.

Unusual bleeding 
Abnormal bleeding is one of many signs of cancer. Coughing up blood can mean lung cancer, blood in the stool can mean colon or rectal cancer, blood in urine can mean bladder cancer, persistent vaginal bleeding could point to cervical cancer, and blood discharge from the nipple can mean breast cancer.

Changes in bladder function 
If you're experience pain when urinating, blood in your urine, or other changes, such as needing to go more or less often, these could be symptoms of bladder or prostate cancer. Besides, if you observe a long-term change in your bowel function, like persistent diarrhoea or constipation, it may be a symptom of colon cancer. Catching it early with a colonoscopy could save your life.

Sores that never heal
If you have a persistent sore or sores that don't seem to heal, you should get them checked out by a doctor right away. Sores inside the mouth can be signs of an oral cancer.

Changes on your skin 
If you notice any changes on a wart or mole on your body, or any other changes on your skin, this could be a sign of melanoma, also known as skin cancer. See a dermatologist right away. It can be treated easily if it's detected early.

Fatigue 
Constant fatigue that does not get better with rest can be a sign of cancer. This is a tricky one because a lot of people feel fatigue for completely different reasons. But if you start feeling tired all the time you should get yourself checked.

6 Things women notice about men right away

First impressions may be made in moments, but they predict the course your relationships follow. So if you know what exactly about you draws in the votes, you can perfect it -- and do better with the opposite sex. So what do women notice immediately? 

According to Dr Gordon Patzer, author of Looks: Why They Matter More Than You Ever Imagined, and one of the world's leading authorities on physical attractiveness, a lot of what women notice in the first few minutes is appearance-based. "A substantial portion of the six features of a man are apparent, in terms of height, weight and overall physical attractiveness," he says. And when appearances don't make the cut, the door slams shut on further interactions. Here's a list of things to keep that door open. 

1. Physical stature 

Yep, you knew this already: size matters. Height and weight are right on top of the list of things women notice. "Too much or too little of either immediately classifies the man as unattractive to women, and closes the door before less physically obviously features (such as confidence) can be determined," says Dr Patzer. Take heart though, the acceptable range is influenced by the woman's own height and weight. 

2. Appearances and attractiveness 

Yes, beauty is skin deep, but it's going to get women to explore what lies beneath. Attractiveness does include what you were born with, but your genes alone can't scuttle your chances. What really counts is what you do with your hair, clothes, grooming and basic hygiene. If you can't make the effort, women certainly are not going to work hard to learn more about you! 

3. Smile 

Once women are done assessing your overall build, women will look at your smile. "The ability to smile, particularly within the first few minutes of meeting, sends a welcoming, non-hostile signal to women," says Dr Patzer. There is one proviso though -- the smile must show off reasonably good-looking teeth. It's never too late to fix an appointment with the dentist! 

4. Humour 

Another reason to show off those pearly whites! Women like men who have the ability to laugh. Even better, make the woman laugh. That instantly nets you bonus points! 

5. Confidence 

Women find confident men attractive. According to Dr Sameer Malhotra, head of psychiatry and psychotherapy department at Fortis Hospital in New Delhi, within the first few minutes of meeting, women will not only suss out your level of confidence, they will also interpret the vibes you give out and how you think. "Women notice how clear or decisive you are and whether you approach things positively." Just remember, cockiness and arrogance are not the same as confidence! 

6. Conversation 

Men have successfully given womankind the impression of being strong and silent. So women aren't expecting you to have mad talking skills. All you've got to do hold her attention. "We know (scientifically) that the more or longer that a woman gets to know a man, the more physically attractive he becomes in her mind," says Dr Patzer. Women are looking for someone to keep up the conversation -- so forget the one-liners, just be yourself! 

6 foods for a healthy liver

One of the most vital organs of your body, the liver is responsible for most metabolic functions. Here are foods to include in your diet to keep your liver functioning normally.

Avocados: Avocados produce a type of antioxidant called glutathione, which is needed for our livers to filter out harmful materials.

Garlic: Loaded with sulfur, a mineral that helps rid the body of toxins, garlic is known to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and bacteria-related illnesses.

Turmeric: Using turmeric (haldi) as a spice in your food can not only enhance the colour but also help your liver. It is said to help your system digest fats and acts as a natural detox for your liver.

Grapefruit: Rich in vitamin C and containing antioxidant properties, having this fruit or as a juice can help flush out carcinogens and toxins.

Spinach: Leafy veggies, especially spinach and lettuce help in neutralising chemicals and aid protective mechanism for the liver.

Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are full of vitamin C that can help your body remove out all the toxic materials and aid the digestion process.

Porn not an addiction, more of a pleasure giver

There is no such thing as porn addiction and those who say it actually ignore the positive benefits it holds, shows research. 

New study has found very little scientific data - if any at all - to support some of the purported negative side effects of porn 'addiction'. 

"There was no sign that use of pornography is connected to erectile dysfunction or that it causes any changes to the brains of users," explained David Ley, a clinical psychologist and executive director of  New Mexico Solutions - a large behavioural health programme. 

Despite the furore, the use of sexually explicit material explains very little of the variance in adolescents' behaviours, he added. 

Slapping such labels onto the habit of frequently viewing images of a sexual nature only describes it as a form of pathology. 

According to researchers, it can improve attitudes towards sexuality, increase the quality of life and variety of sexual behaviours and increase pleasure in long-term relationships. 

"It provides a legal outlet for illegal sexual behaviours or desires, and its consumption or availability has been associated with a decrease in sex offenses, especially child molestation," observed Ley. 

"We need better methods to help people who struggle with the high frequency use of visual sexual stimuli, without pathologising them or their use thereof," wrote Ley. 

"The 'porn addiction' concept seems to feed an industry with secondary gain from the acceptance of the idea," he noted in a study published in Springer's journal Current Sexual Health Reports.