Tag Archives: pain

Livia – the drug free device that promises to ‘switch off’ menstrual pain, period.

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Livia, drug free, pain relief, pain free, period pain, menstrual pain,

I have had bad period pain my entire life. It was so bad when I was younger and it would start a week before my periods. Two weeks out of four weeks was agony. Thankfully it is better than it used to be but it still hurts a lot. I hate taking drugs so taking paracetamol always annoyed me and does not take away all of the pain.

I was excited to hear about Livia, which is a device that ‘switches off’ period pain. I was cynical to begin with. I sounded a bit too-good-to-be-true. And…it does work. Livia is portable and wearable. I did not find it annoying and you can wear it under your clothes.

Livia is pretty and easy-to-use. I cannot recommend it enough. It works for period pain and lets you get on with your life. You can buy yours here.

THE SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN DRUG FREE DEVICE TO INSTANTLY ‘SWITCH OFF’ PAIN FROM CRAMPING LINKED TO PERIOD/MENSTRUAL CYCLES, ENDOMETRIOSIS AND OTHER PAINS

• Livia is a scientifically proven device that ‘instantly ‘switches off’ pain for women
drug free.
• Portable, wearable device uses patented SmartWaveTM technology to stimulate
nerves to block pain.
• Etailer www.uk.mylivia.com had a waiting list of over 4,000 consumers wanting to
get their hands on the device on the back of reviews globally.

The pain and discomfort of cramping linked to menstrual cycles and
periods affects 80% of women at some point in their life with 5% to 10%
of women saying menstruation pain is so severe it affects their life
(according to the Women’s Health Concern). Then there is the pain
associated with endometriosis affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive
age in the UK. It is therefore no surprise many of us feel physically and
emotionally drained by the impact of symptoms on our lives.
Now there is a scientifically proven device that offers remarkable
results in ‘switching off’ pain instantly, giving relief to women without
the need for pain killers. Livia is a portable, wearable device that stimulates nerves to block pain.
Available from https://uk.mylivia.com/ it is so popular the online retailer had a waiting list of over
4,000 consumers wanting to get their hands on the device on the back of reviews globally.
In clinical studies, Livia showed 90% of participants reported pain reduction, 59% reported
moderate relief, 31% reported complete pain relief and 32% said Livia provided significantly faster
pain relief than drugs.
No waiting for pain killers to take effect, Livia uses technology based on the gate control theory, it transmits unique pulses to keep the nerves “busy” and block the signals that cause pain. The state-
of-the-art patented SmartWaveTM technology uses unique micro-pulses to stimulate nerves and block painful cramps. No drugs, chemicals, or tolerance build-up!

Approved by the FDA and CE under the supervision of renowned global women’s medicine expert,
Professor Bari Kaplan at the Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center. Professor Bari Kaplan comments
“Livia stimulates the nerves, making it impossible for pain to pass. The method Livia uses has been
proven effective in several clinical studies and I strongly recommend the use of the device to relieve
PMS at any time.”
Relieving pain in even the most severe cases, including impressive results with women suffering
from endometriosis. Livia is safe for women of all ages and is discreet enough to wear under clothing.
Livia £150 and each package includes the device, a choice of
colourful classic covers, a USB charging cable, protective
travel case, set of Livia flower pads and a 3-month supply of
Livia gel pads. Available from https://uk.mylivia.com/

With hundreds of satisfied customers globally giving 5 star reviews such as JaslynT
5-star rating
The best invention ever!
Livia totally saved my life. I was suffering from terrible period pains ever since I was young and it only
got worse. It came to a point where I can no longer function during period pains and had to pop
painkillers which stopped working. I have been using Living for 2 months now and I no longer take any
painkillers during my period and could actuaRead more about Livia totally saved my life. I was
lly function normally! Thanks Livia!!

Di M.
Verified Buyer
5-star rating
Works better than I hoped
Light, portable and easy to use. Makes a huge difference to pain levels. I have used it for menstruation
pain as well as chronic hip pain. I can now sleep through the night without needing to top up my
medication.

Buy Livia here.

 

Giving Birth – The Real Story

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Giving Birth – The Real Story

  • 72% of mums-to-be are nervous about giving birth
  • Over half of respondents (61%) said their births didn’t go according to plan
  • The biggest fear (27%) about giving birth was medical complications affecting themselves or their baby
  • Almost a quarter (22%) found their birth partners more annoying than helpful

giving birth, birth, childbirth, the truth about giving birth

For most women, experiencing pregnancy and giving birth will be one of the most momentous times of their lives, but this doesn’t come without a certain amount of worries and anxiety. New research from The Baby Show with MadeForMums, which will be returning to Kensington, Olympia from the 21st to 23rd October, revealed that 72% of mums-to-be were nervous about the prospect of giving birth with the biggest worry cited as medical complications (27%)  affecting themselves or their baby. This was followed by 18% saying they were scared of unwanted interventions (e.g. inductions, caesarean section or forceps) and then 17% saying they were anxious about not being able to manage the pain.

The research found that while most mums-to-be will stay close to home the nearer the due date gets, some babies are keen to get things moving in unusual or inconvenient places. Of the mums surveyed, 42% went into labour in their home, with 28% in hospital. These were some of the more unusual findings;

  • Tube station escalator
  • Car showroom
  • Whilst watching a live rugby match
  • On the A1 motorway
  • In IKEA

While the majority of women (92%) chose to have their partners by their side in the birthing room, when it actually came to the labour, almost a quarter (22%) of people admitted they found their birthing partner more annoying than actually helpful, either falling asleep or playing games on their phones whilst mum does all the hard work! Senior midwife, maternity educator and managing director of Marie Louise Maternity, Marie Louise Hurworth says: “Being a birth partner is one of the most important jobs you could have. But it can be challenging and should be taken very seriously. Being there and sensitive to her changing needs will go a long way and set the foundations for your new family. Even if you are unsure of how to help, stand nearby and make eye contact to let her know you are there and willing to help at any opportunity. One of the most important things is that you don’t become disconnected; remember to participate throughout the journey.”

When asked for amusing labour stories The Baby Show were inundated with funny anecdotes from women across the UK including;

  • Nina Motylinski-Davies from East Sussex said: “What kept me going throughout my horrendous labour experience was the fact my husband, who after not getting the opportunity to try the gas the first time round, was determined to have a go this time. Put simply, he got absolutely off his face. He climbed into the birthing pool naked, asked the midwife for a margarita, text my Mum saying he could murder a curry when she was actually asking how I was doing, and then danced around the room to Neil Diamond! I look back and laugh now….”

 

  • Clare Boss from London told The Baby Show: “With my first baby, the fire alarm in the hospital went off which resulted in two firemen coming in to check on the room whilst I was legs akimbo and mid-push!!”

 

  • Laura Jackson from Cheshire explained her dramatic birth story: “I opted for a home birth and hired a birthing pool but sadly never got round to using it! I woke in the middle of the night with a small leak, one week over due, which turned out to be my waters breaking. I woke my husband who immediately started filling up the birthing pool whilst I called the hospital who said the midwives would take around an hour to get to my house. Within moments I had a really strong contraction and suddenly I knew my baby’s head was already out. I was desperate to get into the pool but it wasn’t full and my husband was having problems with the valves. He was in complete disbelief and just said ‘the heads not out’ whilst staring at the front door thinking this would make the midwives appear! Thankfully he snapped into action because with the next contraction he literally had to catch our baby. Such an amazing experience but personally I felt it was a shame for happening so fast…”

 

Wing Yan Lee, Marketing Manager at The Baby Show says: “Birth plans can be a contentious subject and as our results show many births don’t go according to plan. However, most experts would still agree that planning and looking into your birth options is essential, allowing you to prepare and feel in control of your birthing experience, no matter what direction it takes. We have midwives on hand throughout the show who are able to answer any questions or concerns, no matter how big or small, regarding your pregnancy, birth and beyond.”

Marie Louise continues: “Each and every woman is different and has specific individual needs so there is no one rule for all when it comes to labour and birth. As healthcare professionals we focus on women’s individuality and are guided by what women tell us; we then use technology according to the woman’s history and verbal communication to ensure we do our very best to make the entire process as safe, easy and calm as possible. It’s natural to be nervous about your birth and potential intervention but always remember that our aims are reflective of yours to have a happy, healthy mum and baby.”

Once you’ve arrived home and settled into a new routine, another subject you may be thinking about is sex… Am I ready? Will my partner be expecting sex straight away? Will it be hurt? Will it be the same?

The highest number of couples surveyed chose to wait between six weeks to three months before having sex again (42%) whilst one in five (20%) waited just 0 to six weeks. Reassuringly, a quarter of new mums said they didn’t feel self-conscious about their bodies during sex post-baby, and 29% said at first they did but their partners made them feel comfortable and relaxed.

Marie Louise says: “Guidelines suggest that women wait until they “feel ready” to have sex after birth but there isn’t enough discussion about it. Once again, everyone is different and has a unique experience during childbirth. You may have had a home water birth with no complications or you may have had a forceps delivery in hospital. If you have had a C-section, for example, you may feel ready mentally but your wound may need more time to heal. Or maybe you don’t feel ready mentally but your body has healed well. The most important thing is that you do what’s right for you at the right time and always ask a health professional if you are concerned.  If you are experiencing pain during sex postnatally don’t just put up with it, talk about it.”

From the 21st to 23rd October the biggest pregnancy and parenting event of the year, The Baby Show with MadeForMums, will be returning to Olympia, London.  The Show is the must-attend event for mums and dads-to-be and new parents, with over 200 exhibitors showcasing all the latest essentials for your new arrival, plus a stage programme jam packed with fashion shows and informative talks by renowned baby experts.

Advance tickets are available from £12.25, while on-the-door tickets cost £20.  For more information visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk.

Opening times:

Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd October, open from 10:00am-5:30pm each day.

 

 

Lansinoh 3-in-1 Breast Therapy Review

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Lansinoh 3-in-1 Breast Therapy ReviewBreastfeeding is tough. No one really says just how hard it is, but even if you are lucky enough to take to it easily you may not be lucky enough to escape engorgement, mastitis, plugged ducts and sore nipples. Luckily there are things made to help, like Lansinoh’s 3-in-1 Breast Therapy. Is it any good? Let’s find out.

breastfeeding

The 3-in-1 Breast Therapy Packs use innovative PearlTechnology to deliver either heat or cold to affected areas of the breast. Chill it in the fridge or freezer for analgesic cold, or pop it in the microwave for penetrating heat and warmth. The pack holds its therapeutic temperature for a full 20 minutes so you get fast, effective relief.

The writer who reviewed this had mastitis and said that it really helped. Her doctor told her to use hot and cold compresses on her breasts and this treatment made it easy. They are convenient and because they can be both hot or cold they multi-task too. Perfect for saving money and space. No more cabbage on the breasts, this handy and effective treatment really works. It can also be used hot to reduce time spend pumping milk. Using it cold relieves engorgement and the hot therapy relieves mastitis and plugged ducts. Our writer says: ‘This is convenient and works well. It can be used for lots of different breastfeeding problems. It is a mum must have.’

mastitishelpbreastfeedinghelp

Lansinoh Therapearl 3-in-1 Breast Therapy Pack
RRP:£12.95
www.JohnLewis.co.uk

This innovative set includes two reusable treatment packs and covers that can be used hot or cold. The pearl design moulds to the breast to provide all-round relief when breastfeeding.

 

 

Things That Suck About Being Pregnant

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pregnancy, things that suck about pregnancy, pregnant, baby, hatePregnancy is supposed to be an amazing time but it doesn’t always work out that way. My mother always talked about her wonderful pregnancies and, in truth, I don’t think I ever heard a negative pregnancy story from a family member or friend. Sure there were some truly awful stories in the media and, although I found them horrifying, I cast them out of my mind. Which is why I am pretty annoyed now. Pregnancy is not this magical thing people told me about. It is not a magical time at all. Okay, creating our child is wonderful and I would not have it any other way but wonderful or any other such word does not encapsulate it. In fairness, my pregnancy has been termed ‘unlucky’ by my doctor. It is a bit of an understatement due to the horrendous acute morning sickness but, never mind. Here are my pregnancy rants. Feel free to add your own because ranting is good for the soul.

Bump Molestation

Seriously, what is up with this? Today I actually had a stranger molest me from barely underneath my breasts all the way down. I may have been in a sitting position but it was not appropriate and if it had not been an elderly woman she would have at the very least been slapped. It is not okay to touch a pregnant women’s bump without asking her. And even then, keep your hands to yourself unless you are a very close friend or family member. How would you like to be felt up? Especially when you are creating a life and feeling very protective of your bump? This brings me on to my next rant….

A Women’s Body Does Not Become Public Property When She becomes Pregnant

Not only does this mean NO TOUCHING but it also means you don’t get to tell her what to eat or drink, how to exercise or how much weight to put on. You don’t get to make comments on how she looks or what she does so mind your business.

The Unsolicited Advice

Your pregnancy choices were good choices for you. Only share them with other pregnant women if they ask. If you are a man, keep quiet unless you are a doctor and a question is asked. Also annoying is pregnancy advice from women who have never been pregnant. I mean, really?

The Constant Personal Questions

When people find out you are pregnant they ask you everything from what you are going to call your baby, what the sex is and how much weight you have put on. It really is too much. People seem to forget their manners when they are in the presence of a pregnant woman. If you feel uncomfortable just smile and avoid the question or say you are not sharing that information publicly yet.

Morning Sickness

As Miranda says in Sex & The City, ‘I don’t know why they call it morning sickness when it lasts all fucking day.’ Exactly Miranda, exactly. Some woman get barely any morning sickness and some, like Kate Middleton, get acute morning sickness which is otherwise known as hyperemesis gravidarum. Morning sickness is not fun. Think of your worst hangover ever and then think about suffering through it everyday for about three months, sometimes longer. There you go: morning sickness.

Not being Able To Tell Anyone Why You Are So ill

The chances of miscarriage are high in the first 12 weeks so you are recommended to keep your pregnancy to yourself. Suffering in silence is not= fun and colleagues will probably notice something is up. Just know you will get to the end of it.

Having To Do All of the Stuff You Did Before

There is a popular quote that Ginger Rogers had to do everything Fred Astaire did but backwards and in heels. Well, pregnant women have to do everything everyone else does but whilst dealing with morning sickness, being kicked internally, headaches, muscle pain, nausea, random pains, tiredness…the list is endless. The pressure for pregnant women to not let anyone down and act like some kind of superwoman is tremendous. The reality is: pregnant women should be given some slack. If you don’t like that, just remember that the little baby they are creating will be paying for public services in your retirement.

The Fact That EVERYTHING Hurts

I mean everything. From your head to your legs to your vagina. A lucky day is when it doesn’t hurt all at once.

The Constant Worrying

I stopped reading the pregnancy literature before 12 weeks. I could not take it. Even now the stuff overwhelms me. Sure, things can go wrong in pregnancy but do you really need to know about every single thing that could go wrong? No, you don’t. So relax and read a magazine or a good book instead. Ignorance is not bliss, but somedays it is easier.

The Glee of Awful Things To Come

Too many people take such glee in the fact that, apparently, you will never sleep again, nor have a life. People can seem pretty happy because they think that having a child will ruin your life or career. Ignore these people. They are jerks.

What are your pregnancy rants?

 

 

 

Help with Back and Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy

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newborn-216723_640Pregnancy is a life changing, joyous, emotional and exciting journey for most women. However, approximately two-thirds of women experience back pain and almost one-fifth experience pelvic pain during pregnancy. This pain often increases with advancing pregnancy, interfering with daily activities, work and sleep. Fortunately this condition is treatable, it is important to seek treatment sooner rather than later. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is key to successful resolution of symptoms.

The hormones released during pregnancy to prepare a women’s body to grow a baby and give birth, soften and relax the soft tissues of the body (eg. muscles, ligaments). This increased softening increases your joints’ range which means that they do not receive the same protection from the ligaments as before. It is this, coupled with the weight of your growing uterus that may cause backache or sciatica.

Symptoms of back pain and PGP

Back pain can be felt in the upper, middle or lower back. It is probably most commonly felt in the low back during pregnancy and can vary from an occasional ache to a constant sharp or nagging pain in any of these areas.

Pain in the pelvis is described as pelvic girdle pain (PGP), used to be known as symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), but this implied that only the pubic bone was involved, which is often not the case.

A range of symptoms can be described as PGP and they vary in intensity from woman to woman and even pregnancy to pregnancy.

The main symptom is pain;

  • pain over the pubic bone at the front in the centre
  • pain across one or both sides of your lower back
  • difficulty and/or pain walking, waddling gait
  • clicking or grinding in the pelvis with movement
  • pain when weight bearingWomen may experience pain anywhere in the pelvis or into the front of the thighs. These symptoms tend to increase and intensify with walking, standing, sitting, moving the legs apart, standing on one leg (think getting dressed into socks, underwear), climbing stairs and turning over in bed. Symptoms vary from mild to more severe needing support with crutches or a wheelchair.What causes back pain or PGP? For most women PGP is a mechanical problem; there is often asymmetry in the pelvis, with one joint becoming stiffer or more mobile than the others. It is more common in women with a previous history of PGP/low back pain. In approximately 9% of women with PGP the cause is purely hormonal and this tends not to respond to treatment.

When might back pain or PGP start?
it can start at any stage of the pregnancy, it may come on gradually or start quite suddenly. Sometimes symptoms will disappear or improve with rest.

How do I know if I have PGP?

Diagnosis of this painful condition is based on the location of the pain and by taking a careful history of your symptoms.

Will back pain or PGP affect my baby?

No, it will not affect your baby. However, it is important, however that the midwives caring for you are aware that you have back or pelvic girdle pain.

What can I do about PGP?
It is important to remember that whilst PGP is common, it is not normal, but is treatable;l Often resolving within a few treatments. Firstly, tell your midwife, or whoever is responsible for your antenatal care, and then seek treatment sooner rather than later. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is key to successful resolution of symptoms.

Meanwhile plan your day carefully, avoiding too many trips upstairs, remain active with the limits of your pain, avoiding activities that increase your discomfort. Rest is important, rest more frequently, try sitting for activities that normally require standing ie ironing. Try sleeping with a pillow between the legs, or use the pregnancy cushion known as ‘dream genie’.

What can I do about back pain?

Seek treatment sooner rather than later. Try to find a McTimoney Chiropractor who is experienced in treating women during pregnancy and ask them for a few safe exercises you can perform at home. Wearing support tights or a belly band can often give enough support and relief without having to resort to an actual back or belly belt. Try sleeping with a pillow between the legs or under the legs in early pregnancy when you may still be sleeping on your back.

A multi faceted approach is need to treating both conditions. After taking your medical history and examining your back and pelvis, treatment takes the form of gentle mobilization of the pelvis and spine where appropriate and sometimes acupuncture or soft tissue mobilization. This should be followed by gentle exercises and ergonomic advice. The McTimoney approach is gentle and safe for both mother and baby.

In one study, women receiving chiropractic care through their first pregnancy had twenty-four per cent shorter labour times and subjects giving birth for the second or third time reported thirty-nine per cent shorter labour times. In another study, the need for analgesics was reduced by fifty per cent in the patients who received adjustments. In addition eight-four per cent of women report relief of back pain during pregnancy with chiropractic care.

Finally, if you are experiencing back or pelvic pain, McTimoney Chiropractic treatment is a safe and effective way to relieve your symptoms, preparing you for the exciting journey of pregnancy and childbirth.

Article credit: Penny Henderson DC MSc MMCA FRCC
Chiropractor and Medical Acupuncturist

Active Chiropractic Clinic
Lister Surgery, 8 The Parade, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 3QP
and Quennevais Parade, St Brelade, Jersey, JE3 8FX

Tel: 01534 617987
Web: www.activechiropracticjersey.co.uk

 

 References

Interventions for preventing and treating pelvic and back pain in pregnancy Pennick et al 2007.Cochrane Review.

Pelvic Girdle Pain and Low Back Pain in Pregnancy: A Review.
Era Vermani, FRCA*; Rajnish Mittal, FRCS†; Andrew Weeks, MRCOG

© 2009 World Institute of Pain, 1530-7085/10/$15.00 Pain Practice, Volume 10, Issue 1, 2010 60–71

European guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic girdle pain. European Spine Journal. June 2008, Volume 17, Issue 6 pp 794-819

Vleeming A, Albert H.,Ostgaard C., Sturesson B,. Stuge B
Rosenberg Stacey Dr., Natural Pregnancy, Natural Baby.2008. GibsonsChiropractic.com

Henderson C., Macdonald S., Mayes’ Midwifery, A textbook for Midwives.,Thirteenth edition., 2004.,Bailliere Tindall

www.pelvicpartnership.org.uk 

 

 

Soleve Sunburn Relief Review | Health

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Summer may feel like a distant memory but there are still a few lucky ones on holiday. In the hope of some future summer days, or future holidays we have reviewed Soleve Sunburn Relief. It is the first licensed product of its type specifically formulated to ease the pain and discomfort of mild to moderate sunburn. solevesunburnreliefreview Here is what they say:

Soleve Sunburn Relief is a lotion applied to mild to moderately sunburnt skin to relieve the pain of the sunburn and to moisture the skin. It combines two active ingredients to deliver effective relief right where it’s needed: an effective analgesic, ibuprofen, and an emollient, isopropyl myristate.

Ibuprofen is a well-known Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) that is a powerful painkiller and reduces inflammation. Soleve is specially designed to deliver therapeutic levels of ibuprofen directly into sunburnt skin – precisely where it is needed.

Isopropyl myristate, is an emollient which effectively soothes and moisturises the skin by trapping water. Rehydration of sunburnt skin is very important to promote the normal healing process and to make the skin feel more comfortable by reducing both the skin tightness of sunburn and the frictional irritation between sunburnt skin and clothing.

 

This lotion goes on easily and a little bit goes a long way. It absorbs well and you can use it up to eight times a day. Does it work on sunburn? Yes, it eases and soothes. It is quite pricey at £9.95 but it does work, both moisturising and painkilling. It doesn’t smell bad and is not overpowering either. Recommended as a first-aid kit essential, good stuff.

 

Available from Boots and Boots.com

 

 

bac< Shoulder Brace Review

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There are a few slouchers in the Frost office so we jumped at the chance to review the new bac< shoulder brace. Let’s find out if it works…

bac< Shoulder Brace Review

First of all, it is relatively easy to get on, as long as you follow the instructions. Yes, I know, we all hate following instructions but it needs to be done. The device looks good too. We reckon you could even wear it over your clothes. If you are into that type of thing.

So for the most important answer: yes, it works. It is lightweight and comfortable and it makes you stand up straight. This is a great device for strong posture. Recommended.

 

What they say:

bac< Shoulder Brace (RRP £34.99) Lightweight, discreet and comfortable, the Shoulder Brace draws theshoulders back and straightens the spine, so helping to improve posture and relieving pain in the middle back.  A padded spine section supports the user’s own spine, preventing painful flexing and helping the user breathe more easily.  Available in three sizes (junior (teen), small to medium and large), it helps maintain a strong posture, making it useful when taking part in sport and leisure activities. 

 

Stand straight and proud! Improve posture and relieve pain

Our shoulder brace is designed to improve your posture, prevent slouching and align your spine therefore relieving pain and discomfort .

The shoulder brace has been developed in conjunction with Harley Street specialists at the London Spine Clinic and is manufactured in the UK ensuring a posture brace that will last the test of time.

Once the shoulder brace is fitted you will instantly feel the elasticated straps and the semi ridged thermo-formed back section pull your shoulders into the correct position and straighten your spine.

It’s lightweight and made from breathable, hygenic anti-microbial fabric so it is equally suited to be worn under or over clothing.

Adjust the tension by pulling the elasticated straps forward and fasten around the front of your stomach.

Should You Go To Brazil? A Pondering On The Brazilian Wax.

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Pubic_hair_style_Full_WaxThere is a scene in Sex & The City where Carrie and her friends go to Los Angeles, Carrie goes to a new beautician for a wax who ‘takes everything’. Later, when the girls are discussing their shock about being ‘totally bald down there’, Samantha tells Charlotte that her husband Trey, who has been having some problems in the bedroom, might finally be able to consummate their marriage as ‘he probably hasn’t been to Brazil before’. After this episode, the Brazilian wax became hugely popular. But what is it, where did it come from and should women really be getting them? Let’s find out.

 

With a Brazilian wax all of the pubic hair is removed, front and back, by waxing. Ouch. Some people like to leave a thin strip of pubic hair, referred to as a ‘landing strip’.

 

The Brazilian wax, apparently, was first named by the J. Sisters salon in Manhattan in 1987.

 

According to Wikipedia, some people claim that the concept of the Brazilian came from a letter documenting in 1500 AD, which read: “…suas vergonhas tão altas e tão çarradinhas e tão limpas das cabeleiras que de as nós muito bem olharmos não tínhamos nenhuma vergonha” (English translation: “their private parts were so exposed, so healthy and so hairless, that looking upon them we felt no shame”).

 

Brazilian waxing is the most controversial form of waxing, Brazilian waxing is unpopular amongst some women (and men), especially feminists who claim the only people who like it are men who want their women to look underage. Which may be why it is hugely popular with porn stars.

 

Model and Socialite Lisa B said that when she got a Brazilian at a salon in LA that “It was so painful I collapsed. I only fainted, but I was nearly carted off to hospital and I have vowed never to try it again.”

 

Other negatives are that it is a painful experience and if it is not done properly it can cause infection, prolonged bleeding or swelling of the area. It helps to take ibuprofen an hour before you have your Brazilian wax (this is what Madonna does).

 

The positives are that many women say it improves their sex life. If you get it done frequently then the hair will become weaker and the regrowth will become less as time goes on.

 

A Brazilian wax usually last between three to six weeks, but this depends on your hair regrowth rate. Some irritation may occur too, try some aloe vera on the irritated area. If you have ingrown hair (which will look like little bumps. They happen when the hair is not pulled out correctly. The hair curls back in on itself or grows sideways into the skin) you can buy beauty products that specialise in the improvement of ingrown hair. If you are confident you can even tackle the problem with some tweezers, just be careful.

 

The new rise in Brazilian waxing may be because of The Only Way Is Essex and the popularity of vajazzling, which was pioneered by Amy Childs.

 

Interestingly, New Jersey has banned the Brazilian wax for health reasons. This happened after two women in New Jersey were hospitalised after having the procedure.

 

If you want to have a Brazilian do so. Just make sure you go to a salon which is hygienic and knows what they are doing, take a painkiller before and make sure you are not prone to infection.