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The incidence of yeast infections seems to be growing, yet it is often looked upon as a common ailment that is endemic to women. Many men suffer yeast infections and it is just as painful and inconveniently located as for women. Typically a topical cream or antibiotic (either oral or inserted vaginally) is the approach taken when a yeast infection needs to be addressed, but there may be common sense ways to prevent infection as well as suggestions on treatment options. What is a Yeast Infection? When your body produces too much yeast it often results in an infection. Since yeast is common in or on the skin, penis, mouth and vagina these are areas where a yeast infection can occur (although there are generally more incidence in women than men). How Yeast Grows The vagina helps prevent the growth of yeast through a caustic (for the yeast) acidic environment. This environment can be altered negatively by menstruation, as well as the use of birth control pills, diabetes and certain antibiotics. These agents work to lower the acid normally found in the vagina. When this happens, yeast, which is common in the vagina in small amounts, can find an atmosphere for rapid growth. The use of synthetic materials in underwear or lingerie can also contribute to yeast infections by trapping moisture which also creates an atmosphere conducive to excess yeast production. Why Yeast Infection Occurs Ph balance in the body is the key. Yeast is prevalent in the body at all times. Yeast infection will occur when the acid ph of the body is lowered. The immune system regulates the acid balance in the body. Your diet is the leading factor to help the immune system keep a healthy balance. The body has a healthy ph of 6.4 (when measuring urine or saliva), the further away, greater or lower, from this natural reading you have, will cause greater disease and illness such as yeast infection. Stress is one of the largest causes of unbalanced ph readings in the body. Blood ph is higher than body ph. Injury, overweight, antibiotics and birth control pills all alter the natural ph of the body. Fatigue is often overlooked as a stress factor. Your ph reading does vary slightly through the day but should average 6.4 for the day. What Not To Do Some may be following advice that is actually harmful, so it is important to know what has been offered in the past as an effective alternative that will not help cure a yeast infection, and may actually accelerate yeast growth or do long term damage to the vagina. You should never use baking soda in attempting to cure a yeast infection. Baking soda has a high ph causing the yeast to proliferate. You should never use Echinacea in your attempt to cure a yeast infection. While it may be good to take orally as a means of reducing the effects of a cold, when vaginally inserted it can cause acute burning sensations. You should also never use bleach in eliminating the effects of a yeast infection. Bleach can actually burn vaginal tissue and result in scarring. You should avoid douching because it reduces normal and healthy vaginal secretions by drying out the vaginal surface. Effective Ways to Reduce Yeast Infections Reducing grains, sugar and most processed foods from your diet can also help reduce available yeast in your body. Raw vegetables are not only good for you, they can help combat yeast infections The persistent use and regular washing of either cotton or silk intimate apparel is also an effective way to reduce the incidence of yeast infections. Nature’s Assistance Acidophilus is a culture that contains plenty of good bacteria and can help your body fight a yeast infection. It is also a primary ingredient in most yogurt. Colloidal silver has also proven successful for many women due to the fact that this mineral is highly effective in eliminating more than 600 diseases. Tea tree oil has also proven an effective ally in the fight against yeast infections and can be inserted vaginally. If you have suffered several episodes of yeast infections it may make sense to try a more natural management approach as well as effective prevention methods. By learning about how yeast is formed and regulated in your body you might discover new ways to personally assist your own future health. vimax patch penis enlagement tip natural pnis enlargement technique penis enlagement cream penile enlargement herb penis enlagement traction device truth about penis elargement do penile enlargment pills really work

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It might be surprising to know this, but men are terrified of being a failure regarding sexual relations. Of course, most men will never, ever admit to this fear because they believe if they admit to it, then they also need to admit they have a problem with. And if they actually had a problem with it, well...then I guess they just aren't man enough for their partner. Seems like twisted logic I know...but that's how a man thinks. I know...because I am one. Pressure Men seem to think, they need to keep up not with the Jones....but all of their male friends who happen to enjoy sharing stories about their sexual conquests. It's really not uncommon for men to stretch the truth, regarding their past sexual experiences, as well as their present sexual abilities. Perhaps that's exactly why sexual performance issues are one of the most frequently searched topics on the Internet? And guess who's doing the searches? You've got it right...it's the men. Women having sexual dysfunction issues speak openly to their doctors about them, once they have overcome the guilt of not being able to be fully intimate with their lovers. But while women with performance issues need to overcome psychological/emotional issues usually secondary due to some form of abuse or neglect as a child...men's sexual performance issues don't necessarily stem from any tragedies or events in their childhood. It's a guy thing... The performance issues for men are directly related to his anatomy. That's the way we were made ... to be able to have sex, ejaculate and produce offspring. Men weren't made to be "great lovers" who can last hours on end. To be honest, most men would give just about anything to last more than a few minutes. Using a male enhancement program (also referred to as a penis enlargement program) men are able to develop control over their ejaculatory sensations while they enlarge their size and width. Most men, who are able to increase their size by following an enlargement program develop the ability to not only last longer in bed, but sometimes harness and further develop their ejaculation strength. Problem Solved? Does that mean...men should simply follow an enlargement program and all of their problems would be solved? Far from it... It does mean though...that whatever program a man decides to utilize, should be developed and operated by a professional who has had the experience dealing with a variety of men's health problems. Sometimes the answer to a mans sexual performance issues might be hormonal in nature, and only a trained professional could be able to make that distinction and possible offer effective measures. herbal penis enlargment pills penis enlagement pill pro solution penile enlargment photo penis enlargement stretcher com enlargment penis penis pump penile enlargement system homemade penile enlargment vimax cheap penis enlargement vimax forum

Are you among the millions of people worldwide who are otherwise healthy but who’ve lost interest in sex? Do you find it boring and routine? Are you so tired that you’d rather nap than make love? Do you think TV is more stimulating than your partner? Do you have physical symptoms, like vaginal dryness or difficulty with erection, that make sex unpleasant? As a relationship matures it is common, but definitely not necessary, for sex to become predictable and unexciting. One of the first places to start improving your sex life is to elevate your general mood and increase your energy level. This is good advice not only for improving sex but also for most other things in your life. According to a survey of 153 doctors conducted by Pharmatron Health Products during July and August of 1998: “ Herbal supplements are now entering mainstream medical practice, with one in three primary care doctors recommending them to patients at least weekly, most frequently for people with mood and emotional complaints… About as many doctors recommend herbal supplements for fatigue and lack of energy...Doctors also practice what they preach, with one in four doctors personally consuming herbal supplements.” So, let’s assume you have covered the basics. You pay attention to what you eat and take some nutritional supplements. You follow a regular routine for physical fitness. You are reasonably healthy. There are no organic health problems interfering with your sexual performance, or you have consulted a physician and they are being treated allopathically with drugs. (Note that many prescription drugs are known to interfere with sexual desire and performance. If you are taking any prescription medication, ask your doctor about such side effects. It may be possible to prescribe a different medication that won’t interfere with your sex life. ) If you are not doing these things, you may consider changing your habits before you experiment with aphrodisiacs. Regular exercise, good diet and basic nutritional supplements may be all you need to revitalize you sex life. Ideally we could also assume that you have set aside old beliefs and conditioning about your sexuality. You have moved beyond shame and guilt. You have had help in dealing with any sexual abuse or trauma. You understand and believe that sex is natural, good and wondrous. If you lack sexual skill and technique, and your imagination fails to motivate you to experiment by trying new things, perhaps a workshop or some private coaching is in order. Even if you have done all of these things, perhaps you are still looking for more and wonder if aphrodisiacs might be it. They are definitely worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of them may have side effects for some people. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. If you do decide to use them, start out slowly and experiment carefully to see how each of them works for you. Try them one at a time to see what each one does on its own and how your body responds to its use before you consume several at the same time. What are Aphrodisiacs? An aphrodisiac is something that increases your libido. It turns you on and increases your desire to have sex, or it may reduce your usual inhibitions about sex. Aphrodisiacs may also improve your ability to have sex. This means that under the right circumstances, almost anything could have aphrodisiac qualities, but most people think of something to eat or drink when they think of aphrodisiacs. Aphrodisiacs are never an alternative to healthy sexual attitude, doing your inner work to remove psychological barriers to sexual intimacy, or sexual skill mastery, but they can be lots of fun. Aphrodisiacs may also be exactly what is needed when sexual dysfunction is caused by physiological/organic causes, e.g., peripheral vascular disease, hardening of the penile arteries, diabetes mellitus, prostate enlargement, high levels of pituitary gland hormone prolactin, low testosterone, menopause and andropause (the male’s version of menopause). What do you already know about aphrodisiac herbs? Here is a short aphrodisiac quiz. The answers to the questions are at the end of the article. Aphrodisiac Quiz 1. Which aphrodisiac could you say this about? “Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation.” And, “has a reputation for producing electrifying sexual encounters…” 2. What amino acid will help relax the smooth muscles in your genitals and enable a man to maintain an erection? 3. Which hormone precursor did homerun hitting Mark McGwire help make famous? 4. Which Greek Goddess does the name aphrodisiacs come from? 5. What berry provides protection for the prostate gland? 6. Which natural adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, helps balance all the other hormones in the body, for both men and women, and has dramatic effects on improving memory? 7. What topical cream can be used by menopausal women as part of a natural approach to hormone replacement, to help balance an estrogen dominance, assist in reducing bone loss and to build new bones? 8. Which nutritional supplement can help you to stop worrying and be happy now? Hint: It is commonly misspelled as Wart. 9. Which natural sedative available as a nutritional supplement can help you get a really good night’s sleep with no morning after effects so you’ve got the energy for lovemaking? 10. Which Mexican herb is “reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime?” 11. Which adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, can increase your energy level, enhance your sex drive, decrease body fat, reduce stress and reduce ill effects of stress, enhance memory function, extend lifespan, and improve your immune function all at the same time? 12. There is an antioxidant that improves circulation and “can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection.” It is also well known for enhancing short-term memory. What is it? 13. Which South American aphrodisiac used in the Amazon and Orinoco basins for centuries, can increase libido, stimulate sensuality, increase sexual pleasure, and is used as a treatment for impotence and frigidity? Selected Aphrodisiacs Here is a brief summary of several aphrodisiacs that can enhance your sexual desire, help you experience more pleasure and perform better as a lover. We explain their general properties, how to use them, and where to get them. They may be worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of the substances mentioned may have side effects for some people. Nothing we say here is intended as medical advice. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. Where possible use a product with standardized extract. This means that the product is guaranteed to contain a certain percentage of the active ingredient(s). Consult labels carefully to determine quantities of all ingredients. Follow dosage recommendations on the product label. Don’t let the strange sounding names and exotic places they come from throw you off from considering the use of aphrodisiacs. These items are not any more unusual than many things now part of our regular vocabulary and consumption, for instance, aspirin. Androstenedione Available in capsules and spray Androstenedione is naturally occurring in all meat as well as in the Scotch Pine tree. It is a metabolite of the hormones DHEA and progesterone, and is a direct hormonal precursor to testosterone. Androstenedione is short-acting, elevating blood testosterone levels without inhibiting the body's natural testosterone production. Sexually, Androstenedione will be most helpful for men over 50 and for women in the menopausal cycle, because this is when testosterone levels begin to drop. ”Testosterone is… ‘the hormone of desire,’ the substance that acts on the brain to stimulate sexual interest, sensitivity to sexual stimulation and orgasmic ability in both sexes….The most common complaint associated with declining [testosterone] levels is an otherwise unexplainable loss of sexual enjoyment….” [Source: Testosterone: Not Just For Men, Jane Brody, Pro Health, May/June 1998] The hard-hitting bat of Mark McGwire with 70 home runs in a single season has put the spotlight on Androstenedione. In an August 1998 interview with Sports Illustrated, McGwire said “the company that supplies me says most of its repeat business is coming from wives and girlfriends who are very satisfied.” Androstenedione is available in spray or capsules. Recommended dosage: For men, one to four sprays (25 mg per spray) per day. For women, up to one spray per day. Capsules typically come in 50mg dosages, which may be too high for women. Women may wish to take only one or two capsules a month. Men who find adrostenedione works for them may take it daily, on an empty stomach at bedtime and/or in the morning or 30 minutes prior to sexual activity. Long term studies of the effects of this substance have not been done. It is not available in Canada, but is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders. Yohimbe This powerful aphrodisiac is extracted from West Africa's Corynanthe Yohimbe tree. For centuries, tribes in this region have used a tea made from the inner bark in their fertility rituals. It may help to stimulate erection and enhance libido and increase physical energy in men and women. “Most of the current medical literature on yohimbe discusses the treatment of male impotence but an impressive body of anecdotal evidence surrounds the use of yohimbe for making good sex even better.” [Source: Better Sex Through Chemistry, John Morgenthaler, Pro Health, May/June 1998] “Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation.” [Source: Viagra: Is The Stampede Misdirected?, Will Block, Life Enhancement, June 1998] The tincture form is recommended rather than capsules. Take one-half dropper under the tongue and hold for sixty seconds immediately before sexual activity. This is a powerful substance. We do not recommend daily or prolonged use because of possible side effects. Stay clear if you suffer from high blood pressure, heart, kidney or liver disease. Yohimbe is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders. Arginine The amino acid arginine is an immune system enhancer and powerful growth hormone stimulant. It plays a role in many body tasks: wound healing, circulation and sexual function. In response to sexual stimulation, your body releases nitric oxide (NO) in your genitals. This causes the smooth muscles to relax and blood flows into the penis resulting in erection. Both arginine and ginkgo biloba have both been shown to enhance NO levels in your body. “If sufficient NO is not produced, erection or sexual stimulation does not occur. Arginine is absolutely necessary for the production of NO….Some scientists studying these phenomena have concluded that up to 90% of all impotency can be reversed by NO (and by implication, the use of arginine).” [Source: Dr. Whitaker Wellness Institute Guide To Nutrients, Julian Whitaker M.D., Summer 1998] The new drug Viagra from Pfizer increases blood flow into the penis, or into the vaginal area for women, but this drug has many known side effects and there were 69 confirmed deaths attributed to Viagra use by the fall of 1998! Arginine should be taken on an empty stomach. You may use it daily and/or 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. Not for use by diabetics, borderline diabetics, pregnant or lactating women, cancer patients or persons who have had ocular or brain herpes. Available in health food stores. Ginkgo Biloba The Ginkgo tree is one of the oldest living species on the planet. It has flourished unchanged for over 150 million years has been used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. The leaves and fruit of the Ginkgo tree contain a variety of phytochemicals that have a wide range of clinically proven benefits. Ginkgo significantly increases blood flow to the brain thereby improving cognitive function, memory, alertness and concentration. It also improves peripheral arterial insufficiency (restriction of blood flow to the legs and other extremities, including the genitals). “Because it improves circulation, it can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] There are no serious side effects with Ginkgo Biloba. It is available at most health food stores. Large doses over a long period of time can result in irritability and headaches, so take no more than 3 grams daily in capsule or tincture form Saw Palmetto For years, berries of the saw palmetto plant have been used to treat bladder and prostate conditions. It helps regulate testosterone levels in both women and men, supports healthy prostate function and is a good source of fatty acids. ”Many herbalists regard saw palmetto berries as safe, mild aphrodisiacs; ten to twelve can be eaten daily for a cumulative effect. Their potency is increased when they are combined with damiana.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] Recommended dosage is 160-320 mg per day of Saw Palmetto. Avoid if pregnant, planning pregnancy or suffering from a disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Available at health food stores. Zinc Zinc is a mineral that may improve sensory and sexual functions as well as boost the immune system, quicken wound healing, and promote skin health. Virtually every man who lives long enough will have a problem with prostate enlargement. A man with prostate irritation will lose most interest in sexual intercourse. Several years ago I began to have prostate discomfort but have completely corrected the problem with a combination of pycnogenol, zinc, and saw palmetto. Recommended dosage: 50 mg. Daily. High doses may lower HDL cholesterol, cause anemia and weaken immune function. Available at health food stores. Damiana This herb from Mexico has been used by both men and women to enhance and regulate the production of sex hormones. It is considered a potent aphrodisiac. “Chemically this plant has been found to contain several alkaloids that directly stimulate the sex organs… Native Mexican women have long drunk an infusion of the herb a couple of hours before retiring to prime themselves for their men. It is reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] Damiana leaves for tea or making tincture, or tincture already prepared, is available at most health food stores. Muira Puama Found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America, Muira Puama has long been used “to stimulate sensuality, as a sexual enhancer, and as a treatment for impotence and frigidity…[it] appears to be milder and without the side effects of [yohimbe].” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] It is considered effective in restoring libido and treating erectile dysfunction. For an aphrodisiac drink, mix 2 ounces each of damiana and muira puama tinctures in your favorite adult punch (20 serving size). Muira puama may or may not be available at your local health food store. In the U.S. it is available in tincture and capsule form. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail order. Natural Progesterone Cream (For Women) Progesterone plays many roles in the body, one of them is maintaining sex drive. It is particularly important for women in the menopausal cycle. Natural progesterone is identical to what your body produces. It is derived from diosgenin in the wild Mexican yam. Natural progesterones are more biologically active and safer than their unnatural counterparts. Progesterone is a small fat-soluble molecule, which can be easily absorbed through the skin. It is initially absorbed into the fat layers under the skin, then is diffused into the capillaries where it enters the blood stream as needed. This makes transdermal progesterone 100% bioavailable to the body. In contrast, oral supplementation of progesterone has to be taken in very high dosages to compensate for the almost 90% which will be excreted by the liver. Use 1/4 to 3/4 teaspoon in the morning, applied to the softer parts of the body (for better absorption). Rotate the application spot on a daily basis. Because natural progesterone is identical to the body's own progesterone there are no known side effects at 20-40 mg/day. Very large dosages can result in feelings of sleepiness. Available by mail order from suppliers listed. Pregnenolone A supplement derived from diosgenin, the Mexican yam extract, pregnenolone is the building block for all other hormones. Produced by the body’s adrenal glands, Pregnenolone may be one of our most important hormones because it seems to have a balancing effect in bringing the levels of other hormones up or down as needed. Pregnenolone is a direct precursor of both DHEA and progesterone. Pregnenolone levels dramatically drop after age 30. Research indicates that restoration of Pregnenolone to levels of healthy young adults may have dramatic positive effects on memory, mood and energy, and sexual function. Pregnenolone can be taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach to mimic the body’s normal rhythm. Recommended dosage: 10-100 mg per day. Adjust the dosage to your needs. Safety has been long established—it was used for arthritis treatment back in the 40s at very high doses with no apparent side effects. It is available at most health food stores and can be ordered via mail. DHEA DHEA (de-hydro-epi-andro-sterone) is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands. It is usually the most abundant adrenal hormone in the body, but with age (or certain disease conditions) the levels drop. Lower levels of DHEA are associated with many of the diseases associated with aging and people with naturally higher levels are found to have lower incidence of some of these diseases (cancer, for example). In his Wellness Institute Guide to Nutrients Dr. Julian Whitaker notes “I give DHEA to about 80% of my patients over 40 because of its health-enhancing and anti-aging benefits.” Dosage: most people over 25 can take 25 - 50 mg per day in the morning with food. This amount will bring your DHEA levels back up to the normal range for the average 25-year-old. Check with mail order suppliers. St. John’s Wort This popular supplement has been shown to have antidepressive and antiviral properties. New research shows that St. John’s Wort may actually increase serotonin production. I have a tendency to be a little hyperactive. I have never been diagnosed with adult ADD, but I find that taking St. John’s Wort 3-4 times per week takes the edge off my being speedy very nicely. Look for St. John’s Wort containing 0.3% standardized hypericin extract. Avoid if pregnant or planning pregnancy. May cause photo-sensitivity so avoid strong sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light (like "tanning booths") when taking St. John’s Wort. Available in most health food stores. Valerian Getting a good nights sleep does wonders for your sex life! Valeriana officinalis, a natural sedative that may be helpful for insomnia, leaves no morning after effects. Take just before going to bed. Available in tablets or loose tea form at health food stores. High doses may cause paralysis and a weakening of the heartbeat. Like any sedative, may become habit-forming if used for an extended period of time. Avoid if pregnant. Available in most health food stores. INTERNET and MAIL ORDER SOURCES of Products Life Extension Foundation: http://www.lef.org/cgi-local/welcome.cgi/id=151061148 Vitamin Research Products (VRP): http://www.vrp.com/default.asp?vMBR=467976 Quiz Answers 1. Yohimbe 2. Arginine 3. Androstenedione 4. Aphrodite (Venus in the Roman pantheon) 5. Saw Palmetto 6. Pregnenolone 7. Natural Progesterone Cream 8. St. John’s Wort 9. Valerian 10. Damiana 11. DHEA 12. Ginkgo Biloba 13. Muira Puama free penile enlargment video free penile enlargement exercise penis enlagement cream natural pnis enlargement technique top penile enlargment pills herbal penis enargement easy enlargment free penile surgery way permanent penis enhancement vimax forum

In looking through my previous email conversations, I must say I've probably been asked all sorts of questions from my male visitors. I thought it might be interesting to share some of those questions with you simply because if your a man, I'd bet you either have these same exact questions...or are about to ask them to a somebody like me. I'm young will an enlargement program work for me? Most younger men pride themselves on their sexual conquests. They have the ability to engage in sex frequently during a 24 hour period. Conversely, older men can usually only engage in sex one time, but that length of time is of a longer duration. I started this answer with that information to prove a point and set a standard. Younger men have poor sexual lasting skills which is what an enlargement course should provide. Good enlargement programs provide not only exercises to increase size, but have also insured those exercises they use also promote a longer love making time duration. Does it matter if I'm circumcised or not? Whether or not a foreskin is present doesn't matter concerning an enlargement program. If it is a problem, then most likely the exercise itself has been poorly designed or layed out by the site operator. I'm old, will it work for me? Similar to my first question, just the opposite is true. Older men do have a tendency to last longer in bed but their erectile function and penis size have really taken a hit by the passing years. A good enlargement program is able to adapt its exercises to the older gentleman, which insures enhanced erection strength, as well as increased size. Does anything come in the mail? The good penis enlargement programs are completely online with their programs. My program for instance, also offers men the ability to utilize a test to measure their own testosterone levels in the privacy of their home...but by and large, the better enlargement programs themselves are completely online. How long does it take? I've seen some exercise programs developed by individuals that if you followed it exactly, and this is no exaggeration...you'd be doing penis exercises for nearly 5 hours per day. I don't know about anyone else...but that's just way too long and I've got a life! Good programs take anywhere from 15-20 minutes per day. Excellent programs take around ten minutes per day. Perhaps I've been able to answer some questions you might have had about penis enlargement programs...if not, please feel free to visit my website and contact me with them. bottle vimax pills penis enlargment without pills natural penis enhancement pills vigrx penis pill vimax penis enlargement tool vig rx pill male pennis enlargement herbal penis enlagement pills vimax forum

In the man’s body, the pituitary gland in the brain sends a hormone, called follicle-stimulating hormone, (FSH) to the testicles, which are the male sex glands. FSH signals the testicles to produce sperm, which are the male reproductive cells. Sperm are so small they can only be seen through a microscope. Each tiny sperm has a tale that allows it to move. After sperm are produced in the testicles, they travel through a tube called the vas deferens to the seminal vesicle, which holds the mature sperm. A gland called the prostate makes seminal fluid, which is the fluid that will transport the sperm in the urethra. The urethra is a tube that extends from the bladder, through the prostate, then through the penis to the outside of the man’s body. During sexual activity, the prostate gland becomes as full of fluid as it can comfortably hold, and it contracts (squeezes). As the prostate contracts, it draws sperm from the seminal vesicle. Seminal fluid mixed with sperm is called semen. The contractions of the prostate gland force the semen through the urethra and out the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. The ejaculate (semen) is a teaspoon to a tablespoon of thick milky liquid and contains millions of microscopic sperm. During sexual activity, but before ejaculation, the penis becomes engorged with blood. This causes the penis to become firm and erect, and is called the male erection. The male erection allows the penis to pass into the vagina of the woman. When a man has an erection a valve closes between the prostate gland and the bladder to prevent urine from being released when semen is ejaculated. Practically speaking, this means that a man cannot urinate and ejaculate at the same time. To begin the reproductive cycle in a woman’s body, a hormone, called follicle-stimulating hormone, (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. FSH travels through the bloodstream to the ovaries, causing a few of the many tiny follicles there to begin ripening, or maturing. Each follicle is a tiny ring of cells with a tiny ovum, or egg, inside. As the follicles ripen, they produce another hormone, called estrogen. Estrogen causes the cervix, the opening of the uterus, to begin making moisture and mucus. This is when a woman notices wetness or mucus outside the vagina. This mucus is not a sign of disease. It is a natural part of the cycle and indicates that the ova are maturing in the ovaries. If intercourse occurs at this time, the mucus will protect the sperm from the acidity of the vagina, assuring that the sperm will still be alive at ovulation. Estrogen also causes the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, to grow soft and spongy, forming a kind of bed that can, in the event of pregnancy, hold and nourish a baby. Finally, estrogen signals the pituitary gland in the brain that some follicles have matured in the ovaries. When the pituitary gland receives the message that some follicles have matured, it produces another hormone, leutenizing hormone, or LH. LH causes one of the ripening follicles to release its ovum into a fallopian tube. This is called ovulation. Once ejaculation has deposited the sperm in the women’s vagina, they swim up the vagina to the uterus. They do not know which fallopian tube may contain the ovum, and so they swim both ways. When a sperm penetrates the ovum, it is called fertilization. Dividing and maturing as it goes, the fertilized ovum is moved slowly along the fallopian tube toward the uterus by the cilia, tiny hairs inside the fallopian tubes. In six or seven days, the fertilized ovum implants in the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), which is the bed that has been created to receive it. Menstruation does not occur, because the fertilized ovum, growing and developing in the uterus, creates hormones that maintain the uterine lining. The woman realizes she has conceived