Welcome to iVillage.co.uk! or Join our Community

Want more iVillage? Sign up for our NEWSLETTERS
iVillage logo

Health sitemap

Health
Improve your health lifestyle and wellbeing with our guides to alternative and modern medicine find the answers with our conditions finder and get the facts on detoxing vitamins stress-busting stopping smoking and much more.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/channel/health
Women's health
Everything you need to know about gynaecology reproductive health STIs contraception the menopause and more. We've got women's health covered.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/womens-health
General health
Get the low-down on diseases and conditions from depression to cancer. Read up on those embarrassing illnesses you'd rather not tell anyone about and get tips on healthy living.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/general-health
Alternative health
Investigate the alternatives to modern medicine from reiki to reflexology and aromatherapy to acupuncture. Plus find out which herbs and supplements will enhance your health naturally
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/alternative-health
Promotions
Promotional content on the topic of Health.
http://www.ivillage.co.uk/topic/health-promotions
Next time you’re agitated, skip the chocolate and simmer down with these naturally calming foods
Hay fever is the most common form of allergy in the UK but help is at hand. We have put together a list of the top 10 hay fever remedies to help ease your symptoms.
The benefits of running or brisk walking far exceed the physical: Tibetan lama Sakyong Mipham advocates running as a form of meditation and has written Running With the Mind of Meditation explaining his method. Here are some of the more spiritual benefits of running and walking. By Hilary Pereira
There is so much information around when it comes to health and fitness that it can be difficult to know all the facts. Here are 10 health facts that may surprise you.
While none of us will forever, you can add some extra years on to your life by paying attention to what you eat. To increase your lifespan as well as improving the quality of your life, check out these five foods that help you live longer.
How healthy are the foods you choose to eat? You might be surprised to discover that even some of the ‘healthiest’ foods contain high levels of hidden fats, sugars and salt. Check out these 10 culprits so you can make more informed choices. By Hilary Pereira
Just because you can’t find your keys, your desk is a mess and you blow up at your boyfriend doesn’t mean you have adult attention deficit disorder. Then again, it might. Here's how to tell the difference..
Think you know what’s good for you? You may be surprised. Take a look at these seven seemingly good habits that can actually be bad for your health.
We all know that woman who jumps out of bed and instantly looks glamorous yet subtly casual; that woman who doesn’t have crumbs on her new suit or bags under her eyes. The high-powered, super smart, well off woman we all want to be is only seven steps away. Follow these tips and become your very own, real-life wonder woman (cape not included):
Keeping healthy and active through regular exercise and eating sensibly is important at any age. As we hit our 40’s and beyond it becomes vital to our well-being to maintain regular exercise and daily activity. Numerous studies have shown that a combination of a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition increases the risk of premature ageing, illness and disease; ultimately shortening life expectancy.
From your BMI to your heart rate, healthy living often revolves around numbers. However, here are 7 surprising health statistics you may be unaware of.
Summer is most people's favourite time of year but it can play havoc with your hair. Follows these easy steps to ensure you don't compromise your hair health as the temperature rises. By Hilary Pereira
Most cases of breast cancer are found by women noticing unusual changes, taking the initiative and visiting their doctor. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of beating it – so you can see how important it is to make regular checks. iVillage.co.uk have teamed up with Breakthrough Breast Cancer to provide answer to some of your most frequently asked questions. You may also wish to visit our Breakthrough Breast Cancer message board, where you can connect, in complete confidence, with women who may have had or are having similar experiences to you.
Statistics show a major gap in gender when it comes to depression sufferers. But is there a differentiation or do women seek help while men suffer in silence?
I keep hearing people talk about breast screening but I don’t know whether I am entitled to free screening or when I should go. Please can you tell me the basics?
Spring is the traditional time when we clear out the cobwebs and start afresh. This year, why not extend the spring cleaning to the rest of your life and get rid of your lifestyle clutter.
When you’ve looked forward to your holiday all year the last thing you want is to be struck down by avoidable illness. Here are 10 tips for a healthy experience at home or abroad. By Hilary Pereira
How many different diets have you tried? Are you the first to jump on board when a new ‘miracle’ diet makes the headlines? Here’s a rundown on the pros and cons of dieting and how to lose weight effectively. By Hilary Pereira
There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is bad for you, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is helpful. There are steps you can take to decrease your LDL levels and raise the level of HDL in your blood. Controlling your cholesterol in this way can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and disease of the arteries, which can cause heart attack and stroke. By Hilary Pereira
Whether heading out for an exercise session or suffering from a mid-afternoon slump, there are times when we all need an energy boost. For an instant pick-me-up to help you keep going, check out these top energy-boosting foods.
Try these drug-free, no-surgery treatments to ease back pain.
Lots of things can affect the health of your hair and scalp, from choosing the right hair care products to eating specific foods. Here are 10 of the best tips for great-looking hair. By Hilary Pereira
Back pain is responsible for more sick days and doctor’s visits than most ailments. Take this quiz and learn back-friendly habits
From workouts to healthy diets, many of us make an effort to look after ourselves. However, we could be compromising our health on a daily basis without even knowing it. From bottling things up to eating fast food, here are the top 10 male habits you should try to break.
From workouts to healthy diets, many of us make an effort to look after ourselves. However, we could be compromising our health on a daily basis without even knowing it. From carrying heavy handbags to wearing crippling heels, here are the top 10 female habits you should try to break.
Feeling tired, disorganised, anxious, tense or suffering from stress in the workplace? Then try following our tips on how to make your work day healthier...
A negative outlook usually leads to negative experiences, but taking an optimistic approach to life, and everything it throws your way, can reap dividends and lead to positive experiences. Some evidence even suggests that being positive makes us happier, and happier people generally live longer.
General good health impacts on every area of life, from promoting great relationships to improving concentration and preventing serious disease. By Hilary Pereira
Disorganised and distracted? You might be one of a growing number of adults living with undiagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Do you feel jaded at work? Are you forever craving that 'extra hour' in bed? Browse through these expert tips for the answer to your sleep problems.
From allergies, cold remedies and STD's to cancer, the menopause and bereavement, our all-encompassing health check A-Z tool offers expert professional advice and information on every health condition imagineable.
There are some health checks all women should make regularly at home, and some routine tests that should be offered through the NHS. They’re all vital to early detection, diagnosis and treatment of conditions that can affect women at different ages and stages. Here’s a guide to how to self-check and what should be available when. By Hilary Pereira
The greater your emotional intelligence or ‘quotient’ (EQ), the better you’re able to empathise with others and get in touch with your own emotions. Here are 10 tips for raising your own EQ for a happier life. By Hilary Pereira
A feature in the Daily Mail caught my eye this week on why divorced men are suddenly such a catch. As a Dating Coach, counselling singles of all ages and types, I am only too well aware of the shortfall in eligible, interesting and self-aware single men of a certain age.
Research suggests that a person's emotional intelligence (EQ) might be a greater predictor of success than his or her intellectual intelligence (IQ), despite an assumption that people with high IQs will naturally accomplish more in life.
Being obese means having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, and if you have a BMI of over 25 but under 30, you’re still considered overweight. A healthy BMI is between 19-25. Obesity in itself puts you at risk of developing a number of related health problems, either in the short or long term, so it’s worth taking steps to shed those excess pounds. You can discover your BMI by using a simple online calculator such as iVillage.co.uk's BMI Calculator. Here are some of the problems you can avoid by maintaining a healthy weight. By Hilary Pereira
Whether you want to enhance a good mood or fend off a bad one, choosing your food carefully can help. To find a food to suit every mood, here are 10 of the most commonly felt emotions and their accompanying snacks.
From the latest 'superberry' to the newest health-boosting grain, barely a day goes by without a new cure-all superfood hitting the headlines. Yet while these foods promise to boost your health, they can also leave your bank balance a little worse for wear. Fortunately, healthy eating doesn’t have to cost a fortune. If you want to improve your health while sticking to a budget, check out the seven cheapest superfoods that will leave you feeling great.
There are times when we all suffer from the odd crisis of confidence, but if you feel a lack of confidence in general is holding you back, we have lots of everyday fixes and longer-term advice. By Hilary Pereira
Fancy using an injectable contraceptive that will protect against pregnancy for eight to 12 weeks? We look at the pros and cons of the most popular injection, Depo-Provera. You can find more information on the NHS Live Well web pages By Hilary Pereira
We’re all so concerned with our physical health that it’s too easy to forget about our mental wellbeing, which needs every bit as much looking after. While severe cases must always be treated by a medical professional, there are some day-to-day things we can all do to look after our mental health. By Hilary Pereira
Allergies are on the increaseaccording to the charity Allergy UK, and now almost a third of people in the UK are thought to be affected at some point in their lives. Common allergens include pet dander (dead skin cells) rather than fur; mould spores and the faeces of dust mites, rather than the mites themselves. Here’s how to reduce your risk of allergies around the home. By Hilary Pereira
Ever promised yourself that you were definitely going to give that bad habit the flick, only to give in to your vice again after only a couple of hours? Well, the good news is that ‘bad’ habit may not actually be as harmful as you think. Here are 10 common ‘bad’ habits that are actually quite good for your health.
Depending on your personality type, you may benefit more from different types of positive psychology to lift your spirits
It's always useful to take a step back and assess things from afar. While we all tend to get caught up in the hurly burly of everyday life, why not take stock and resolve to make some fundamental lifestyle changes that will make you happier and healthier in mind, body and spirit.
If you’ve been promising yourself that you’re going to ditch that bad habit for a while but have never quite got around to doing so, it could be time to take the plunge. To help ensure your success and make the process a little less painless, check out these 10 ways to break bad habits.
During the winter months, we’re all more vulnerable to infections, joint problems, poor skin condition and more. Here are 10 tips to keep yourself healthy this winter. By Hilary Pereira
Rather than go for the latest diet fad or embark on a strict regime of abstinence, your overall health will improve greatly if you alter some fundamental lifestyle choices. By Hilary Pereira
Just how positive are you in your life? According to Susan Quilliam, author of Positive Thinking (Dorling Kindersley, £4.99), a solid foundation of positivity will help you get the best from life. Take this quiz to discover how positive you are. Respond to the following statements by choosing the answers that are closest to your experience. Be as honest as you can.
Welcome in 2012 with a fresh start. Whether you're looking to revamp your look or makeover your career, your 12 steps to a new you begin here.
After the excesses of Christmas, many of us set ourselves unnecessarily harsh and, in some cases, unrealistic resolutions. This year, see how many of our top 10 achievable health resolutions you can keep. By Hilary Pereira
During winter, as the nights get colder, your chances of picking up a nasty bug or dose of the flu are likely to be much greater. As a result, it's important to maintain a strong immune system, to keep as healthy as possible. Here are six of the best foods to eat if you want to improve your immune system for the big freeze.
Christmas is notoriously a time to indulge – but don’t let this be the green light to over-indulge! You can still enjoy all the festivities of the season and get through the Christmas period without too much impact on your health and waistline! Here are 10 tips for a healthier Christmas...
Yes, you can battle depression without succumbing to overeating and weight gain...
Whether it’s a one-off occurrence before a big event or a nightly struggle, most of us suffer from insomnia at one time or another. Fortunately, there are many foods that can help you sleep a little easier. To help you relax and catch some Zs, check out these foods to help you sleep.
Feeling sluggish in the morning? Here are some simple everyday health strategies that can give you more get-up-and-go when the sun comes up...
As the big day approaches and this is my last blog of the year, I thought it might be fun to look at the psychology of Christmas. It’s often a time of mixed emotions – we look forward to spending time away from work and with our families, yet the biggest month for relationship counselling is January, when time together with our partners didn’t pan out as expected.
From wrinkles to under-eye circles and eye bags to acne, the effects of our lifestyles can display themselves on our faces before we even start to feel them. Luckily, there is no need to opt for surgery just yet. By eating the right foods and paying attention to your diet, you can drastically improve your appearance.
Overdone it on the booze? The good news is help is at hand! While you may be tempted to reach for the junk food to make yourself feel better, loading your overworked liver with more toxins is actually the last thing it needs. Instead, try snacking on one of these alternative foods to aid your recovery and start feeling better in no time at all.
This past few days have seen outrage in the press and on Twitter because after much speculation and denial, 32-year-old, Xtra Factor presenter, Caroline Flack has revealed that she is, indeed, dating teenage heartthrob Harry Styles, from One Direction, who at 17, is 15 years her junior.
How do you rate your family’s overall health and fitness? Perhaps you eat well but count over-stretching for the remote control as exercise; or maybe you’re outdoorsy, energetic types but eat too many processed foods. According to government statistics, the most common leisure activities enjoyed by over 80 per cent of young people in England aged 16-24 included listening to music and watching TV, as well as using the internet*. Take our simple quiz to get an idea of your family health and discover changes you could make to improve things.
Investigative journalist, Donal MacIntyre, 45, explains why his grandmother’s Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) made him take a hard-hitting view of his own eye health.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet should give us all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients we need, but there are certain supplements it’s worth considering taking if your diet isn’t always wholesome and balanced. Some are multi-purpose, others have specific benefits. Which are for you? By Hilary Pereira
In a recent survey, it was revealed that over half of mums feel that their relationship with their partner moves from carnal to platonic after the birth of their children. A third of women believe that they now only fit into the category of mother, rather than lover, with 21 per cent admitting that their partner no longer sees them as sexual at all.
Green tea is gaining in popularity in the UK, with traditionally black tea manufacturers adding it to their ranges. Not only is it a delicious alternative to black tea or coffee, it has lots of health benefits, too, as studies have suggested it may help ward off many diseases. Here are 10 health problems green tea can help to prevent. By Hilary Pereira
While you no doubt know your weight, height and shoe size, do you know the numbers that really count? In terms of health, there are certain numbers that can make all the difference. To give your health a quick assessment and help stay fit and healthy, check out these 10 important numbers everyone should know.
We all need to build a certain degree of exercise into our lives, but the key to continued success is to find the activities which best fit in with your day-to-day lifestyle. For some people, finding regular time to commit to exercising is not only difficult – it makes you feel as though you’re stuck in a rut before you begin. For others, it’s more about muscle tone and relaxation than pounding the streets to lose weight and build stamina. Then there are those of us who would rather not bother at all. Take this quiz to find out which types of exercise will be easiest for you to maintain.
With the run up to Christmas, reality TV shows are in their frenzied element. Whether you’re following Strictly Come Dancing, Young Apprentice, I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here and/or X Factor, there is hardly a single evening during the week or at weekends, when there isn’t something on TV to titillate every possible taste.
When it comes to assessing the state of your health, it may be that the answers are written all over your face. According to Chinese medicine, your face provides a wealth of information about the health of your inner organs, while orthodox medicine also relies on facial signals to help diagnose certain conditions. To start reading your body’s signals, check out these seven signs to take note of.
A snack that's good for you at work can provide the energy boost you need to get through the day. Here are some choices that will fill you up without filling you out.
According to the World Health Organisation, inactivity is responsible for a multitude of diseases, disabilities and even deaths. With more and more of us spending the majority of our days sitting down, here are 10 reasons to get more active from today. By Hilary Pereira.
Today’s economic climate is straining the funding and resources available to the NHS and, as such, many treatments that were once free and accessible have been removed from the list of NHS procedures and are now only available from expensive private practices.
X Factor is a must-stay-in-to watch show for millions every weekend. In spite of lower viewing figures than Simon Cowell would have liked this time around, losing out regularly in the ratings battle to Strictly Come Dancing, it has become a part of our traditional autumn viewing and everybody has an opinion on who they want to see go in any week or who they want to ultimately win.
With many of us - especially office workers - leading largely sedentary lifestyles, we need to take every opportunity we can to inject a bit of healthy activity into our days. Here’s how... By Hilary Pereira
New research has highlighted the risks women take with their contraception and the shocking lack of knowledge regarding the wealth of birth control options available
Actor and nineties heartthrob Hugh Grant has become a first-time father at 51 after what has been described as a ‘fleeting relationship’ with a Chinese actress, young enough to be his daughter. And although he pronounces himself ‘thrilled’ at his new found fatherhood, it seemed to take a few weeks for the news to leak out.
10 foods to aid your recovery Overdone it on the booze? The good news is help is at hand! While you may be tempted to reach for the junk food to make yourself feel better, loading your overworked liver with more toxins is actually the last thing it needs. Instead, try snacking on one of these alternative foods to aid your recovery and start feeling better in no time at all.
Beat the winter blues with a cup of green tea. It?s rich in antioxidants, aids relaxation, and helps keep you hydrated - all in one cup
A healthier lifestyle now could help you live longer - from reducing stress to cutting down on bad habits - so why not work through our gallery of tips to maximise your chances of a longer life. By Hilary Pereira
Dan gives advice to a reader who after being unemployed for over four months, is feeling hopeless and starting to lose faith that he/she will find a decent job any time soon.
What a few days it’s been for Jeremy Clarkson. After he admitted that he could no longer afford the so-called superinjunction fees to prevent his ex-wife, Alex Hall, from spilling the beans on their life together (and the fact that the news was all over Twitter like a rash some months ago) hardly a day has gone by when she hasn’t been in the papers or on TV in preparation for the publication of her kiss ‘n tell book.
Sleep deprivation can be mild or extreme. Simply going to bed too late and getting up too early on a regular basis can have some impact on your daily life, and enduring the sort of extreme deprivation that goes hand in hand with, say, having a young baby in the house can be really debilitating. So how exactly does lack of sleep affect you physically and emotionally? Take this quiz to learn more, choosing the options that most closely describe your experience... By Hilary Pereira
So many foods confer unexpected health benefits. Garlic, when it’s crushed, produces a health-giving component called ‘allicin’ which has lots of advantages for our wellbeing. Taking a daily supplement can also play a part in guarding against certain illnesses, and doesn’t have the disadvantage of leaving you with ‘garlic breath’. So bring on the garlic in all its forms!
With many of us turning to antibiotics and flu remedies at the merest hint of a sneeze, we could be exposing our bodies to all sorts of side-effects as well as building immunity to their beneficial effects. Luckily, there are many ways to heal your body without hitting the medicine cupboard. While many conditions do require traditional medicine, to help treat minor conditions or supplement ongoing treatment, check out our top 10 medicinal foods.
With many of us trying desperately to perfect the balance of work, family and social lives, it can seem as though there is little time to relax. However, taking time to de-stress and relax your body and mind is integral to maintaining optimal health. Fortunately, there are many ways to make relaxation a part of your everyday life. Here are our top 10 ways to relax.
The latest birth statistics from the Office of National Statistics show a massive spike in women over 40 having babies. In fact, the number has nearly trebled, from 9717 in 1990 to 27,731 in 2010. And as these numbers show a significant increase, year on year, we hear about more celebrity mums giving birth, often for the first time, when aged 40+. Carla Bruni, at 43 is the latest to join a growing list of luminaries like Madonna, Cherie Blair, Emma Thompson, JK Rowling and Arlene Phillips.
Many of us have a flutter on the Lottery. You may win the occasional tenner or if you’re lucky a bigger sum. And many of us have fantasised how our lives would change if we really bagged the big one.
Information on breast cancer and ways to help raise awareness on the issue, as part of Cancer Research UK's Frock Breast Cancer campaign.
There’s no 100 per cent foolproof way of preventing colds and flu, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting either type of virus. By Hilary Pereira
Dr Hannah Bridges of Breakthrough Breast Cancer answers breast cancer queries on the iVillage.co.uk message boards.
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cancer Research UK helps separate the fact from the fiction relating to a disease that kills 12,000 women a year in the UK
Like, it would seem, almost every woman in the world I read Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat Pray Love and like a good deal of them I loved it. Gilbert's description of finding herself and God during her travels filled me with awe. But I was also jealous. I wanted to eat the best pizza in the world in Italy. I wanted to hang out with a wise but quirky medicine man in Bali. And i also really wanted to trascend human consicouness through meditation in India. Unlike Gilbert though I have a part time office job and a husband and 2year old who I wouldn't leave for all the pizza in Italy.
Getting fit and healthy can sometimes feel like a major effort. However, there are many health-boosting changes you can make that won’t feel like such a chore. Taking a few simple steps can set you on the way to more healthy lifestyle.
Getting fit and healthy can sometimes feel like a major effort. However, there are many health-boosting changes you can make that won’t feel like such a chore. Taking a few simple steps can set you on the way to more healthy lifestyle.
There’s a fad (or should that be mad?) diet out there to suit every taste and lifestyle. You can (apparently) drop those unwanted pounds if you do any of the following.
As one of the UK’s most popular and enduring comedians, David Walliams has confessed that he’s suffered many bouts of depression during his life, where rather than allow it to show to others, he has masked his sadness with a well-rehearsed veneer of jollity and a gung-ho attitude. Indeed, he is just one of a long list of comedians who have suffered in the same way. Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Bill Oddie, Jack Dee, Lenny Henry and Ruby Wax have all admitted battling depression during their careers. It’s the ‘tears of a clown’ syndrome.
There are all sorts of everyday factors that can take their toll on our skin, but we have 10 tips for keeping it in great condition.
A varied, balanced diet is the cornerstone of healthy living for everyone, yet healthy eating can sometimes mean different things depending on your gender. While there are some foods we should all be eating more of, men and women also have their own set of dietary requirements as well as their own unique health concerns. Here are ten foods all men should eat.
Being breast aware is important year-round, but during October it takes on special importance for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Jamie Oliver, cheeky chappy turned Naked Chef, and now overseeing a £100million restaurant and cookbook empire, is the celebrity chef we all love to love. Not only does he tirelessly campaign for anything from nutritious school lunches, the fight against obesity in the US and better education for under privileged youngsters, he’s got a beautiful wife and four gorgeous kids, and without a whiff of those personal scandals that plague some of his colleagues, he would appear to have the perfect life.
Every week, Jo Hemmings, Behavioural and Celebrity Psychologist will give her analysis on a topical news story involving a celebrity or the latest research in a way that you will be able to relate to in your own lives. As a Relationship Coach, who has counselled singles, couples and celebrities as well as having had regular appearances on TV analysing the behaviour of A-Listers through to reality TV contestants, Jo’s unique psychological spin will have you hooked! You can also find Jo on Twitter.
Dan gives advice to a reader who is struggling to get along with her rebellious teenage daughter.
While ageing is an inevitable part of life, how quickly or well you age depends on many different factors. Although there are some obvious causes of premature ageing, there are many seemingly harmless things that can also add on the years.
Around 1 in 10 of us experience depression in our lifetime, and depression is currently the third most common reason we visit the doctor. While severe cases should always be treated medically, there is evidence to suggest that diet could play a role in the prevention of this condition. Here are 10 foods to set you on the right track.
Dan gives advice to a reader who is worried about how she and her partner are going to afford raising their unexpected baby.
We show you which activities are the best for building bones - plus an exclusive strength-training workout to get you started.
Find out how to make heart-healthy choices that lower your bad cholesterol and raise the good type.
Dan gives advice to a reader who is terrified of turning 30 because she fears that she should have accomplished much more by now and is running out of time.
Yorkshire charity Altogether Better has been nominated for a 2011 National Lottery Award. Learn more about the work of Altogether Better and vote for your favourite charity from this year's shortlist.
Sense Scotland - a charity for deafblind people and their families - has been shortlisted for the National Lottery Awards Health category. Find out more about the charity, the awards and how to vote.
Cornish charity Surf Action helps service personnel and their families deal with the return to community life after combat. The charity has been nominated for a National Lottery Award in the Health category (sponsored by iVillage.co.uk.) To find out more about Surf Action, the awards or to cast your vote visit this page.
Water retention can cause unpleasant symptoms including bloating and swollen ankles. You should always consult your doctor if you suffer from persistent or frequent fluid retention but in the meantime, here are some self-help tips for lessening the effects. By Hilary Pereira
Information on the National Lottery Awards 2011 Health category nominees - sponsored by iVillage.co.uk.
Everyone has a bit of a worry about their health from time to time, but are you over-obsessed with your own mortality? Could you be a hypochondriac? Take the quiz to find out.. By Hilary Pereira
Whether at work or merely going about your everyday business, back pain can be debilitating and painful and is not always easy to treat, but there are self-help measures you can take to ease the symptoms. By Hilary Pereira
Is your body misbehaving? Are you hiding strange protrusions, or masking odd smells, or have you become a slave to your fickle bowels? Reassure yourself and find out the best treatments with Dr Chris Brown and Dr Sarah Brewer.
Dan Roberts advises a a career woman who feels undermined by her male colleagues.
Who knew your houseplants, bathmat and scented candles may be causing a reaction? Here we let you know what house hold objects and areas may be increasing or causing an allergy.
Dan gives advice to a reader whose parents are racist and therefore she is worried about introducing them to her boyfriend who is of colour.
Most of us know someone who has been affected by cancer and some will have suffered or are suffering with the disease. There is a raft of useful information and support available, some of which we have listed here. You can also discuss your feelings, seek advice and offer your own, in complete confidence, on our Cancer Support message board
Maintaining a healthy weight is harder for some of us than others, but speeding up your metabolism can help significantly. From healthy meals to fitness advice, here are 10 tips to set you on your way.
Dan gives advice to a reader whose fear of flying is threatening to ruin her new career.
There are foods we can eat regularly that may help give us a better chance of avoiding cancer in later life. Here are 15 cancer-busting foods that can be incorproated into healthy meals or healthy snacks...
Dan Roberts gives advice to a reader who is bullied at the work place by her new boss.
Most of us spend time trying to ensure our own health is in order but it's also worth making sure the man in your life is in as tip-top shape as possible, especially as many men continue to be reluctant to address the issue. Here are 10 vital health checks for your man...
Dan Roberts gives advice to a reader who can't move on from her cheating ex-boyfriend.
More and more people in the UK are suffering with allergies, which can cause misery as well as impact on health. There are, however, some medical and self-help solutions you can try.
Dan Roberts gives advice to a reader who has been suffering from bulimia for many years and is now desperate to beat the illness but doesn't know how.
Are you waking up each morning feeling as tired as you did when you went to bed? Do you feel like you’re in a bit of a trance throughout the day? If so, you are like thousands of people across the UK and in a recent survey for Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, the average adult admitted they feel mentally or physically tired almost three days a week and more than seven per cent felt drained every single day. Tiredness and fatigue is a common health complaint and one that we often moan about but few of us actually take them time to address. GP Dr Jas Kalsi has provided 10 top tips to help you fight fatigue...
We are living longer with every passing generation, partly due to the fact that we’re better educated about lifestyle and its impact on health. Here are 10 ways you can help to increase your life expectancy.
Stress can sometimes be a positive thing and we often thrive under a certain amount of it, but too much stress can have a severe impact on our overall health. Follow these tips to help ensure stress does not take over your life.
Dan gives advice to a reader who is worried about her depressed husband and his moodiness and bad attitude.
Your morning routine shapes the rest of your day so it's imperative you get it right to give yourself the best chance of remaining refreshed, focused and ready to tackle the stresses and strains modern life throws at you. Here are some basic tips to help you make a solid start every day.
Dan gives advice to a reader who has a problem opening up to people and expressing her emotions.
Most of us feel like we could be more healthy but it's not all about slogging it out at the gym, pounding the streets or drastically changing our diet. There are a number of simple and easy steps all of us can make to ensure we have better health.
Dan gives advice to a reader who is always obsessing about being perfect at work and home and therefore is constantly exhausted and unhappy.
Dan gives advice to a reader who has become estranged to her controlling father but is now ready to have him back in her life.
From spices to siestas, every culture has their own solutions to staying healthy and managing their weight. To help inspire your healthy living, check out these global health secrets that could help you stay fit and trim.
Dan explains the basics of mindfulness meditation- how it works, why it is so good for your health and how it can help this week's reader decrease her stress levels.
Just brushing twice a day isn't enough to ensure you keep your teeth and gums in optimum health. Here are 10 ways to make sure your mouth is in tip-top condition.
Dan gives advice to a reader who has competed with her sister all her life and has lost almost all her loved ones. She blames herself for her mother's illness and is struggling to find help.
Heart disease is one of the biggest health scourges of the western world, but there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your heart health.
Facts on cystitis, including symptoms and ways of avoiding and treating the common complaint
Dan gives advice to a girl who has lost her direction in life and is struggling to get motivated and happy at her work place.
Dan Roberts gives advice to a reader who is constatntly envying her friends and feels extremely guilty and miserable because of it.
Dan Roberts gives advise to a single woman, in her thirties, who has no desire to get married or have babies. Dan explains why it's ok for her to be perfectly comfortable in this situation, despite the judgmental opinion of everyone else.
There's more to looking after your gut than just eating properly. Did you know, for instance, that exercise can have a big impact on gut health? Read on for some top tips to keep your insides in pristine condition.
In week one, I challenged you to make an appointment with your doctor to take inventory of your health as you began the Challenge. A follow-up exam is a good idea after about three months of committing to your new lifestyle.
Dan Roberts gives expert advise to a reader who has been hating herself all her life but is finally ready to change.
Stress doesn’t only make us feel irritable, snappy and tired – it can have implications for our physical health, too. Read on to discover 10 physical effects of stress and how you can overcome them.
Dan gives advise to a reader who fears she might be an alcoholic due to her excessive drinking habits.
We all feel a bit down from time to time, but do you know the warning signs of depression? It’s a serious illness that needs treatment, either with talking therapies, drugs or both, so keep an eye on yourself – or your loved ones – so you can seek help quickly if need be.
The experts at Breakthrough Breast Cancer answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the disease, including family history and other potential everyday risk factors.
What will happen when I go to the doctor with something that is unusual?
A gallery outlining the various causes of environmental dry eye along with simple steps to avoiding it...
I’ve heard that it’s important to check under your arm pit as well as around for changes like a lump in the breast. Is that true and if so how do I do this?
Is the only symptom of breast cancer a breast lump?
I don’t have a lump but I do have quite a lot of pain in the breast, is that normal?
I’ve found a breast lump in the shower; does that mean it is breast cancer?
We all suffer from the stresses of everyday life to an extent, and knowing how to relax is an important antidote. But how well do you really relax?
With Britain fast becoming one of the fattest nations in Europe, it could be time to make a few wise food swaps. With very little effort you can save fat, salt and sugar grams, as well as boosting your roughage, vitamin and mineral intake. Here’s how.
Do you know your monounsaturated fats from your polyunsaturated? Your omegas from your antioxidants? If you are confused by food terminology we're here to help with a healthy eating A to Z, we've selected the most frequently used food and diet terms associated with healthy eating to help you to clean up your diet.
Question: Dear Dan, With the weather warming up, all my friends are dusting off their summer wardrobes, bringing out the light dresses and, inevitably, slightly more revealing clothes. I genuinely dread this time of year because I just don't feel I have the figure to carry off summer clothing. In my younger days it was never a problem but recently I have built up a real complex about it. I would never dream of wearing a dress that reveals even a glimpse of bare leg, for example. When summer comes around I find myself ducking out of social events - drinks after work etc - simply because I can't face a) wearing summer-style clothing or b) wearing clothes that leave me hot and bothered in the warm weather. A friend who I confided in has said I shouldn't worry and I should celebrate my shape but I just have no confidence whatsoever. Any advice? Grace.
Are you prone to feelings of paranoia? Dan Roberts looks at what may drive these feelings and how to deal with them
Dan Roberts looks at the different types of therapy available - including CBT and psychotherapy - and why they are useful
There's every reason to practise good hygiene around the home. But how hygiene conscious are you? Take a look at our slideshow to find out how well informed you are and learn steps you could take to cut down on the spread of harmful germs.
We've all felt nervous about 'performing' infront of others, be it on stage, in the boardroom or in a social situation. Dan Roberts suggests some ways of nailing your presentation skills to minimise anxiety
Dan Roberts looks at insomnia and ways of tackling the issue
The affect that age has on your fertility: iVillage
Most women suffer some discomfort during their periods, but there's no need to grin and bear it; there are plenty of products which can help make your time of the month as comfortable as possible. Stock up on these monthly must-haves and make your period an excuse to feel extra special
Redundancy is a sad symptom os our economic climate. But the people who 'luckily' manage to escape redundancy are often left with massive workloads and plenty of stress to boot. Dan Roberts looks at how these people can ease the pressure
Most cases of breast cancer are found by women noticing unusual changes, taking the initiative and visiting their doctor. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of beating it – so you can see how important it is to make regular checks.
Your body will begin to repair the damage done through smoking almost immediately, kick-starting a series of beneficial health changes that continue for years.
Wellbeing coach Dan Roberts gives tips on anger management - are you an 'exploder' or an 'imploder'? Learn about 'clean' anger and how to use it effectively
If you've found it hard to cope with the loss of a loved one, or know someone who has, Dan Roberts' advice can help you tackle this difficult issue
Boots Pharmaceuticals has launched a new treatment, Cyklo-F Heavy Period Relief 500mg Tablets, which contains tranexamic acid, for the reduction of heavy menstrual bleeding over several cycles in women aged between 18 and 45 years with regular cycles.
Our new wellbeing blogger Dan Roberts tackles the issue of anxiety and panic attacks
No woman ever really looks forward to the day her period arrives each month, but for many women it is more than a mere inconvenience. Heavy bleeding, especially when a regular occurrence, can leave a women feeling exhausted from the blood loss, embarrassed by any leakages onto clothes or bedding, and frustrated at the impact it can have on her life each month. Here's some advice on how to handle heavy periods
We use our eyes pretty much every second of the day and our vision is arguably the most important of our five senses. Despite this, many thousands of Britons are going about their daily business without glasses when they really should be wearing them.
As the days get cold, grey and dark, it's easy for your mood to drop a few notches. It can be a real struggle to stay upbeat when the days are so short and nights so long. And if you suffer from SAD (seasonal affective disorder), the lack of light can be a real problem, making you depressed at this time every year. But the good news is that there's plenty you can do to keep the winter blues at bay – even if you can't afford a week in the Maldives! From light therapy to regular exercise and tackling negative thoughts, you have the power to improve your own mental wellbeing.
There are a range of natural remedies available to help your system fight colds, flu and infection. Browse this selection of some of the most popular on the market
The ultimate Spa experience is the one that fulfils your individual needs; whether you are pregnant, stressed or just looking for a relaxing break in a busy day. Use our interactive map to find your perfect spa experience.
Discover the vitamins that improve energy, help fertility and aid skin and nails
See just how many calories you're adding to you diet from the alcohol in your drinks. How many calories are in a glass of wine?
Antioxidants are substances in foods that protect the body's cells and DNA from damage caused by free radicals (by-products of use of oxygen in the body). Antioxidants have many health benefits and can reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers.
Today, 21 people in the UK will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer; only one of them is likely to be alive in five years time. Because symptoms are often non-specific and take 80 per cent of diagnoses are made when the cancer is *already* terminal (stages).
As the clocks have now gone back, our minds turn to darker nights, turning on the heating and getting out the winter woollies. The transition from the lighter evenings and warmth of summer, to the short days and cold temperatures of winter can leave many people feeling tired and run down and can lead to us being more vulnerable to picking up colds and viruses
On an average day you have 60,000 thoughts which dictate your mood, confidence and achievements. When was the last time you took stock of your thought bank and checked you are making healthy deposits?
SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) is a condition where the body produces an increased level of melatonin due to lack of sunlight, resulting in severe mood changes and lethargy. Getting out and about as much as possible can help combat such symptoms during the winter months so check out this selection of wonderful winter walks and get those hiking boots on!
Enter now for your chance to win a Cocoa-cation, thanks to Mercure hotels and iVillage.co.uk!
Heavy metals are all around us: in the air, the water we drink and the food we eat. Even at relatively low concentrations these metals can be harmful to our health, so find out how to limit your exposure and eliminate them from your body
You might not be an expert, but chances are you know the drill when it comes to breast cancer - checking for lumps and bumps regularly. But what about the UK's most common gynaecological cancer? Do you know the risks and symptoms - do you even know what it is?
Whether you are a sufferer yourself or you have to put up with a partner who has the problem, snoring is no laughing matter and can lead to health problems of varying degree. Emily Handford researched some of the options available to help cure snoring and restore that much-needed beauty sleep
The National Lottery Awards are the annual search to find the UK's favourite Lottery-funded projects. iVillage sponsored the Health category and attended Saturday's star-studded ceremony to celebrate with the winners.
A few weeks ago you learnt about the triggers of headaches with expert advice courtesy of Nurofen. Now we look at some broader questions on headaches answered by Dr Andrew Dowson as well as questions on Nurofen, answered by Reckitt Benckiser Sales Development Controller Trevor Gore.
Are you sitting comfortably? Do you have a chilled glass of wine by your side as you take time out to relax after one hell of a day? A little 'me' time is often punctuated by hearing a cork release and the gorgeous gurgle as the wine glass fills. Aaaah bliss!
Prepare yourself for the ultimate chill factor in terms of spa treatments. This growing icy fad takes its name from the Greek language 'Cryo' meaning 'cold' and 'therapy' relating to 'cure'.
We all know swimming is a great all-over body workout, but the real appeal lies in its all-inclusive nature. And whatever your fitness levels and motivation, a dip in the pool promotes many social and psychological benefits.
Did you know that reducing the risk of the biggest cause of blindness in people over 70, Age Related Macula Degeneration (AMD), could be as simple as eating the right kinds of foods, keeping fit and wearing sunglasses? Dr Ian Murray, Senior Lecturer for the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Manchester, discusses the steps we should all take that may prevent this common condition
Cruse Bereavement Care's Young Cruse Project offers bereaved children and young people access to individual bereavement support from caring volunteers. It provides a safe space where children aged 4-18 can begin to work through their grief in their own way, with the help of Young Cruse Volunteers.
Last month, iVillage proudly showcased the semi-finalists in the iVillage.co.uk Best Health Project category in The National Lottery Awards. We're now calling on your support again, to help decide which of the three finalists deserve to be crowned this year's Best Health Project, view videos of the finalists...
The Food for Life Partnership is working to transform the way people think about food in England by supporting schools, young people, their parents and communities to grow and cook local, seasonal and organic food and eat healthily.
Access to Citizenship, which is run by community organisation Destined, works with people with learning disabilities in North West Northern Ireland, to enable them to play a full part in society. They offer further education options, advice and training to find employment, as well as personal and social development courses.
Last month, iVillage proudly showcased the semi-finalists in the iVillage.co.uk Best Health Project category in The National Lottery Awards. We're now calling on your support again, to help decide which of the three finalists deserve to be crowned this year's Best Health Project.
(That's a Very Intimate Problem...) Having an active and healthy sex life is everyone's right - but how do you cope when thrush, cystitis or other intimate problems strike? We've got all the tips you need to help yourself over these embarrassing niggles, plus advice on when to consult your GP.
Women's health encompasses all sorts of areas from breast care to wellbeing in pregnancy, as well as more intimate issues. When life's at its most hectic women have a tendency to keep going, and minor health problems can go unchecked. But there are steps you can take to manage your health without too much disruption to your daily routine.
We've all been there - wide awake in the middle of the night, asleep on your feet during the day, disturbed digestion and a loss of appetite - jetlag is all too often a bad end to a great holiday. It's fairly common knowledge that jetlag occurs when your internal body clock is out of sync. However, looking at the Chinese body clock, as used by acupuncturists, can help further explain some of the more common problems suffered by travellers.
Life has its stresses for every woman: working women combine the demands of a job with running a home; full-time mums are on 24-hour call as everything from childcarer to housekeeper; and if you're a working mum, no doubt you're juggling more than most. The result? You can end up tired, frazzled and run down.
People seem to jump on bandwagons for all different types of diet and health fads, but there are some reasons to suggest that there is health benefits associated with the colours in food. It's been drummed into us to 'eat our greens', but now we should be 'eating our purples?'.
The importance of dependable protection against pregnancy during sex is very important for couples in the UK, yet many people may be unaware of the range of options available to them. This handy guide breaks down the offerings available over the counter at pharmacies across the country.
A sobering fact to consider is that one in three people in the UK who reach the age of 65 will eventually die with dementia
The debate over superfoods has been ongoing for over a decade: do some foods have magical health qualities or is it all just part of a clever marketing scheme?
Move over Madonna; material girls we are not. Research shows financial stability, family and a bit of common courtesy are what makes UK women happy, while men put a higher importance on luxuries.
Working in an office environment during the summer months can be tiring thanks to the effects of the stuffy atmosphere and dry air conditioning. Research suggests loss of concentration at work is related to thirst so we've got some quick tips to help you stay hydrated during your working day
This year, iVillage is proud to have teamed up with The National Lottery Awards to sponsor the Best Health Project category. The Awards are the annual search to find the UK?s favourite Lottery-funded projects and we want you to have your say over which project you think most deserves to make it through to the final stage of the competition and appear on national television later this year.
We are bombarded with advertisements promoting 'good' bacteria, but can probiotics really help or is it all just a big marketing con? Alex Atkinson investigates
Cosmetic surgery is becoming increasingly accepted as the norm, but is it really normal to endure surgical procedures and injections purely for vanity? Alex Atkinson looks into the world of aesthetic nip-tuck.
If everyday life frequently gives you a headache - literally - you'll be relieved to know that a few adjustments to your day could help you avoid this common discomfort.
Headaches can appear from out of the blue. One minute you may feel fine, the next your head's thumping.
It's common knowledge that over exposure to UV light can lead to skin cancer so why are so many of us still putting ourselves at risk by using sunbeds? Alex Atkinson investigates the lure and the laws of tanning
Hypnotherapy is a safe and effective way to making positive lasting changes in your life. Whatever you would like to treat, change, or even kick a habit, hypnotherapy covers an endless list with fast, positive results
Meet Konnie Kara, a wedding journalist by day and a bride-to-be by night. With insider access to all the latest bridal news, and planning advice, she's been called a wedding guru many times, but does she have what it takes to plan her own special day? Offering honest, frank and humorous insights and opinions, this is an account of one of the most exhilarating, and rollercoaster-emotion-filled years of her life
Working Brits are at their best at 11:33am on a Tuesday morning, according to new research.
Worrying is one of the most prevalent thought addictions, keeping us stuck in a state of disarray. A particular worry will become a repetitive thought pattern which we accept as part of our day to day life. Life Coach Michelle Zelli explains how to move away from worry and towards a happier life
Menstruation, ovulation, fertility windows and menstruation problems.
An interrupted sleep pattern can make you less alert than you need to be during the working day and in some cases cause stress and emotional problems. Dr Frank Lipman looks at some everyday issues that could be affecting your sleep, and how to rectify them
Pharmacies and supermarkets are stocked full of vitamin supplements nowadays. But if we already have a healthy, balanced diet, are they necessary? Wellness Practitioner Claire Snowdon-Darling gives us the lowdown
Organic food: the posh looking food in the supermarket with a higher price tag. And as the recession has hit more and more people have opted out of buying organic. Wellness Practitioner Claire Snowdon-Darling tells us why organic is best
One woman's account of how she gave up smoking
Model, fitness expert and mother, Nell McAndrew, spoke exclusively to iVillage.co.uk about the benefits of sports such as swimming and why she thinks more needs to be done to encourage exercise as a lifestyle choice
Boots has been caring for women for the past 160 years; introducing innovative products to help us live our lives to the full and developing ways to make managing our health more convenient. The latest breakthrough from Boots is a product for women, previously only available on prescription.
TV nutritionist Amanda Hamilton advises on the best foods to get you in the mood with your man
Almost everyone over the age of 40 experiences difficulties reading fine print up close. You might find yourself stretching your arms to read the morning paper or squinting to read the menu in a restaurant. It’s perfectly reasonable to feel let down by your eyesight, but it’s important to remember that our eyes do change over time - and that it happens to us all!
Christmas is supposed to be a season of fun and frivolity, but for many of us it's the most stressful time of the year. If you're shy, all those Christmas parties can be anxiety-provoking affairs
Keep your skin looking young and healthy with resident GMTV nutritionist Amanda Hamilton's fruity cocktail
Over-exposure from the sun and sunbeds is the main cause of skin cancer. Find out if you've got your facts straight
Marie Stopes nurse gives her advice on sexual health, periods and contraception
Take care of your health and give your body the foods it craves
Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). It’s not a topic we discuss around the water cooler, and yet it affects thousands of women in Britain who suffer each month needlessly. It is estimated that 884,000 women in the UK[1] are affected by the condition with many women suffering in silence, missing out on day-to-day activities and not realising that there can be simple ways to address the problem.
No matter what age you are, most women want to age as slowly as possible. And for me that means slowing down the ageing process from the inside and the outside. The more you can do before the change in hormones at the menopause, the easier the transition and the slower the ageing process.
Behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings looks at women's attitude to risk - especially in the bedroom - and how you can be prepared for any eventuality...
If your Monday morning is a veritable checklist of things gone wrong, you may or may not be comforted to know that today is Blue Monday - officially the most depressing day of the year
Discover the most effective edibles to boost your immune system and fight off sniffles, colds and fearsome flu bugs.
Tips on how to live a healthier life in 2009
If you've had a cancer diagnosis, cared for someone with cancer, or been affected by the diagnosis of a loved one, you possess something valuable - a cancer experience. At Macmillan, we can help you use this experience to do something really positive - help improve cancer care in your area and throughout the UK
Advice on how to cleanse and detox your body
Find out why it's important to distinguish a cold from the flu: iVillage
You know the season has turned when the latest bug starts doing the rounds and a pack of tissues becomes a handbag
When you feed your children make sure you also feed their minds.
How to treat the skin infection, impetigo
Find out how TCP can help you with first aid
Suzannah Olivier offers advice on how to avoid consuming harmful bacteria
Can't stomach milk? The easy way to deal with lactose intolerance
Dr Valerie Tagwira answers questions about sexual health
An introduction to the new emotional support network bigwhitewall
Are you feeling a bit down, lonely or just confused? Whatever you are experiencing, it feels good to let it all out. Have a look at our favourite 'bricks' from emotional support network, bigwhitewall.com
How a Sun Chlorella A can help you detox and revitalise
One woman's account of how she gave up smoking
Can anything other than lipo suck away your cellulite? Andrea Wren turns to Chinese Medicine's 'cupping' method in the hope of a non-invasive cure
If you've ever wondered about the contents of your bowel movements, The Book of Poo, by Dr Anish Sheth and Josh Richman hopes to enlighten you.
Celebrity trainer Michael George shares his Hollywood training tips
When it comes to dealing with headaches and migraines, identifying and avoiding the factors that can trigger them is often easier said than done
Don't bottle it all up, take Alison Porter's 'Coach Fabulous' guide to a relaxed and stress-free life
Our new iVillage community life coach, Claire Hegarty, describes the turning points in her own life and explains how she can help you harness the power of now
Do you suffer from abdominal pains and complaints? Author of Gut Instinct Pierre Pallardy explains the inner workings of your 'second brain'
Breast Awareness Month is urging all women to make checking your breasts an essential part of your health care routine
There are many misconceptions surrounding emergency contraception, from the obvious to the downright bizarre. Make sure you know the facts not the fiction
Symptoms, causes, diagnosis and prevention of allergic rhinitis - seasonal (hay fever) and perennial
You've heard the phrase 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away', but is it accurate? Here are 10 reasons why you should regard it as more than just an old wives tale
We are becoming increasingly aware of how the food we put in our mouths affects our health and fitness, but do you know what diet is best for your teeth?
Even if you feel as strong as an ox, your bones may tell a different story. Find out what you can do to prevent osteoporosis
While the beach is a great place for families to unwind, relax and have fun, it is important that some basic safety rules are taken into account
Ditching a whole dress size in three weeks sounds too good to be true, but not impossible if you're one for liquid-only fasts and carb-banishing regimes
Philips, Sense and Simplicity doesn't let complexity stand in your way.
Is it time you left your stress in the departure lounge and jetted off to pastures new?
A gap year is as much a part of your CV as your first job, so when Harry Yirrell, a 20-year-old student and rugby player, set off for Ghana it was unthinkable that a mosquito bite could end his life
Your body needs extra attention to stay healthy when the temperature rises. Ignore it at your peril, says Dr Sarah Brewer
If you want to stay fit and healthy the key lies in growing your own fruit and vegetables, according the author of Grow Your Own Pharmacy, Linda Gray
Can the new 'wonder drug' Modafinil really boost your brain power without side effects?
The sun gets blamed for a lot, but as long as you don't sit out in it from morning until night, it can also have some benefits
What's a girl to do when she's faced with recurrent bouts of thrush? If you're Andrea Wren, it's time to diet!
How healthy are you? Give yourself a quick MOT with these simple tests
We sometimes hear about health scares involving so-called superbugs such as MRSA, Clostridium and E.coli, but what are they and how do they develop?
Do you live for the thrill or plan excitement? Take this quiz to assess what kind of risk taker you are
You've decided you want your breasts enlarged, now it's time to find the right consultant for the job
CBT may sound like a vocational college course, but Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is actually a psychological treatment, a 'talking therapy', which can be used to treat a number of conditions such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, substance misuse and phobias
Help relax the spasms and relieve the pain of IBS and discover the treatment you can get at your high street pharmacy
We are told the latest strain of bird flu known as H5N1 is more serious than other avian viruses, but is it really a threat to humans?
You know the score; your partner blissfully snores their way through the night like a pig on heat while you're woken up by every grunt and groan. Jane Worthington's book, The Duvet Diet offers some helpful suggestions to tackle even the most persistent of snorers
Can walking around in some strange-looking shoes make your bum shrink by a few inches, or could they cause more problems than they?re worth?
Contrary to popular myth, no silicon breast implant has ever exploded under pressure on an aeroplane, during scuba diving or during particularly cold weather. But is breast surgery a completely risk-free procedure?
Feeling a bit under the weather and can't work out what's causing it? Electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones, plasma screen televisions and computers could be the cause
Sometimes you can't beat a bit of old-fashioned advice and Linda Gray's book, Traditional Remedies, sets out to prove that plant and herb-based medicines and alternative chemical-free solutions can heal all manner of aches and pains
Have you ever considered your feet as the window to your soul? Reiki Master Ann Gadd explains why you should
My name is Clare Spurrell and I am an addict. My problem is cigarettes, lots of them, about 20 or more on a bad day, but 2007 is the year I'm going to kick the habit for good
In the eagerly anticipated second series of Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses, you'll find out if detoxing can help a group of people who suffer from society's most embarrassing and intimate body 'illnesses'
What drives a bright teenager with everything to live for to anorexia? Author of Thin, Grace Bowman, tells her story of living with anorexia nervosa
Have you made your New Year's resolution? Make this the year you actually see it through to the end; whether it's to stop smoking, lose weight or get a new job, life coach Alison Porter says it's all about focusing on life's positives
Thinking about giving up smoking? Look no further than our discussion boards for some motivational reasons to quit the evil weed
Detoxing is as much a part of January as over-indulgence is part of Christmas. To help speed up the process specialist 'detox kits' litter pharmacy shelves, but do they really cleanse your body or just empty your wallet?
Get a head start on your resolutions by making sure you avoid the Boxing Day bloat and can squeeze into your LBD for the New Year's Eve bash.
The role of a carer can be tiring and stressful. We talk to one woman who describes how her family and support network really came up trumps when helping her care for her mum
You moisturise your skin, comb your hair and brush your teeth, but what about your bowel health? Galina Imrie tells us why we should always look after 'number two'
Everyone knows sex without a condom can be risky, but when you're in the throes of passion it's easy to get carried away. You may not want to ruin the moment or maybe you're just too shy to suggest it. Whatever your reasons, is it really worth risking it?
Your body will go through changes as it ages. How these changes affect you depends in part on your genes ? think how your parents or siblings have aged and you?ve a good idea of how you will
Psychologist Dr Pam Spurr explains how to free yourself from old anger and live a happier life.
Books, DVDs and CDs for meditation, visualisation, yoga, stress management and relaxation.
Psychologist Dr Pam Spurr explains why gossip is not always harmless, how to avoid being drawn into a group of gossipers, and what to do if you're a victim
Don't let daily stress affect your health. Dr Pam Spurr can help you find balance in your life.
Solutions coach and psychologist Dr Pam Spurr explains why laughter really is the best medicine.
iVillage UK has healthy eating diet advice including nutrition basics, sample menus, and ways to put healthy eating plans into action
iVillage UK has tips to help you fight burnout, relieve stress, and refuel your mind and spirit. Take a power nap, give yourself a treat, laugh out loud!
iVillage UK has advice on how to take control of your life. Set goals, have a 30 day plan, and find your motivation.
iVillage UK brings you a three step happiness makeover. Learn to respect your body and environment, nurture your feelings, and connect with your inner goddess.
iVillage UK and Bridget Kelly bring you advice on nurturing yourself. Learn to break free from food, take time out, and get the key to self-esteem
iVillage UK shows you how to stop procrastinating and gain time management skills as part of the Mind Body Challenge
Enter a competition sponsored by Tena to win a free makeover
Domestos promotion: The dirtiest room in the house?
According to a leading American health advocate, mushrooms may indeed be magic when it comes to fighting age-related problems
4head - fast headache relief without pills
Do you need wax, polish or just soap and water? Our expert tells how to keep your floors in good nick
Our guided relaxation recording will lead you through a simple set of instructions to release tension and relax your entire body.
Ever wonder why people seem to have a bounce in their step or a bit of a glow after having sex?
We all know about breast cancer. But what other cancers strike women?
iVillage's guide on the 'superfoods' that can help prevent cancers.
Get the facts about this condition that can affect young women in particular.
Alex Jamieson - who helped her boyfriend detox after his MacDonald's binge for film 'Supersize Me' - reveals her real-world detox plan.
Special March 2004 feature exploring the different fertility treatments available, from using donor eggs and sperm to clomid and IVF treatments.
All aspects of physical and mental health are balanced by the ancient practice of ayurveda: iVillage
Learn about the Alexander technique and how it can help your posture and overall healt: iVillage
Naturopathy uses a range of treatments to help the body reach a natural state of equilibrium
Shiatsu is an ancient form of massage that can help with physical and emotional problems
Homeopath Jo Evans explains that cures for the winter blues may be under your runny noses: in your kitchen cupboard
Herbs are the basis of many modern medicines and need experts to dispense them
Discover the therapeutic and general health benefits of garlic
Essential oils from plants are used in aromatherapy. Find out how this therapy works.
The innocent herbal remedies we take to ward off colds or lift our spirits could cause problems with prescription medicines
Jill Reid tells you where to go for safe advice on alternative therapies and supplements
Taking a high dose vitamin supplement over a long period of time could be harmful to your health. Nutritionist Wynnie Chan reports
We look at some herbal ways to combat depression and anxiety
Fish oils (omega-3s) have benefits for a huge variety of conditions - boosting brainpower, tempering arthritis, protecting against some cancers, benefiting eczema and sometimes asthma
Put the spring back into your step with simple dietary and lifestyle changes, plus plenty of supplements to get you bursting with energy
Santa has been and gone, the parties are over and the decorations are down. Avoid the January doldrums, shake off the cobwebs of 2005 and take on the challenges of the New Year with a healthy positive outlook
What useful items with medicinal properties do you have lurking in the kitchen cupboards?
Get advice from a doctor and Flora on how to keep blood pressure in line
Hear about the realities of coping with breast cancer from women who know
Edd describes the truth behind this standard treatment for breast cancer
One iVillager tells her story of coping with her cancer diagnosis over the holiday period
Sue Wall didn't want to worry her husband with the tests, but his reaction when she told him surprised her
Discover the cures for tummy upset, hangovers, headaches and more
Are foreign condoms safe to use? Is sex in the ocean bad for you? We answer your burning holiday questions
Cancer can be devastating to your health and your finances. Get coverage that protects you and your family
You're just five simple steps away from being a non-smoker forever
What are the symptoms and diagnosis and treament of Chlamydia? And what happens if it goes untreated?
What are the symptoms, diagnosis and treament for Genital herpes? And what happens if it goes untreated?
What are the symptoms, diagnosis and treament for Genital herpes? And what happens if it goes untreated?
What are the symptoms, diagnosis and treament for Syphilis? And what happens if it goes untreated?
Having an STI shouldn't be embarrassing and certainly isn't shameful. Dr Brewer explains what to expect from a check up at a genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic
Psoriasis is more than just a bad case of dandruff, it's a chronic disease. Distinct by its scaly patches of skin and flakes, many sufferers battle to overcome the feelings of discomfort and embarrassment associated with the condition
Lose the stress with an hour in a space-age floatation tank.
If the excesses of Christmas have left you feeling below par, then these easy-to-digest tips should get you back on track
Brighten up your world with our guide to beating the blues
Four times more women are affected by SAD than men, so if the winter months leave you feeling sad and sleepy, you could well be a sufferer. Dr Sarah Brewer advises
Osteoporosis affects as many as one in three women. Dr Sarah Brewer outlines the key ways you can look after and improve your bone health
Get the low-down on HIV and AIDS, find out whether you are at risk, and what you can do to protect yourself
Julie is HIV positive. This is her story of how she continues to work to break down the social barriers linked to HIV and AIDS
Why not let your choice of gifts reflect a healthier approach? Choice of gifts for each member of your family
Whilst food allergy is fairly uncommon, less than 1% of the population suffer from them, food intolerances are more common. Dr Sarah Brewer clarifies the difference between food allergies and intolerances and, outlines the two most common causes - gluten and lactose
Lying in the bath one Saturday night, Joy Ogden discovered a lump in her breast. Diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 59, here she recounts her experience
One woman shares her story of how she coped with breast cancer - her diagnosis and treatment
iVillage has chosen to support Lavender Trust at Breast Cancer Care, as they raise money specifically to fund Breast Cancer Care's support and information services for younger women.
Delicous menu suggestions for a purple-themed fundraising party. Drinks, nibbles, tea-party suggestions, buffet lunch and supper and no-cook options
Understanding screening is an important factor of breast awareness. Here, nurses from the Breast Cancer Care team answer women's most common concerns about screening
The truth about light and mild cigarettes
With 1.5 million sufferers in the UK - half of these women - more and more have to get through their day coping with diabetes. Expert advice
It's one of the most common forms of contraception but is not without side effects. Concerned iVillagers talked to Dr Sarah Brewer about the pill
It sounds like the perfect contraception - no periods and no fuss, but there are side effects to the Depo-Provera injection. Dr Sarah Brewer answered iVillagers' questions on the Contraception and Sexual Health Message Board
Find out what happens inside you while you're asleep and why depriving yourself of proper rest can have some surprisingly serious consequences. From Live Well... Be Healthy by Dr Jon Marsden and Alison Dillon (BBC Books)
Get a good night's sleep with this advice from Dr. John Marsden and Alison Dillon, authors of Live Well...Be Healthy, (BBC Books)
With 1.4 million sufferers in the UK, diabetes is on the increase, and many cases still remain undiagnosed. We take a closer look at the bare facts behind diabetes mellitus
Diabetes explained type one two Diabetes for Dummies symptoms symptom sugar obesity
Dr Sarah Brewer answers iVillagers questions about these popular forms of contraception
Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the number one female killer in the UK? Find out what the risks are and how to avoid them: iVillage
If you have good eyesight, it's easy to forget about your eye health, but it's essential to go for regular check ups - your eyes are windows for a whole host of health conditions.
Dr Sarah Brewer talks to the iVillage community about the menopause
A brand new 2004 guide on how to look after your dental health. We examine everything from treaments and toothache to getting a whiter smile
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who get it is on the increase. Most skin cancers are caused by damage from UV (ultraviolet) rays in sunlight. These cancers can be prevented if we protect ourselves from the sun
Skin cancer special 2004 with all you need to know about protecting you and your family's skin from harmful UV rays
When there's no shade around, the best way to protect your skin from the sun is with loose clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and good quality sunglasses
There are five golden rules to help protect you and your family from the damage the sun can cause. In turn, this will reduce your risk of skin cancer
The two types of UV rays that can damage skin are UVA and UVB. UVA penetrates deeply into your skin and causes it to age, wrinkle and sag. It can make you look ten years older! Scientists now believe UVA rays can also cause skin cancer
Over the summer months, one of the best ways to avoid the sun's harmful UV rays is to find shade under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors. UV rays are invisible and cannot be felt on the skin. They penetrate deeply into our cells, causing changes that lead to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage and skin cancer
There will always be times when you're out in the sun without adequate shade or cover-up clothing. This is when sunscreen is useful for protecting exposed skin from the sun's rays. Sunscreen alone will not protect completely from sun damage and you should never use sunscreen in order to spend longer in the sun. It should be used to increase your protection
Dr Sarah Brewer talks to iVillagers openly about their gynaecological and reproductive health concerns
Imagine a long-awaited holiday ruined by a summer affliction, like hay fever or sunburn. Packing the right natural cures in your luggage will help you safeguard against holiday nasties
We look at the stages of the menopause and the changes that occur in your body. Plus we look at helping yourself through 'the change' with a healthy diet in our brand new summer 2004 feature
We all suffer from breathlessness from time to time, but some people have recurrent problems with shortness of breath and wheeziness - or asthma.
Dr Sarah Brewer talks to iVillagers who have questions about infertility and conception - both conventional and complementary methods
The things about men's health that every woman should know. Find out about common conditions afftecting men, from testicular cancer to obesity and prostate trouble - it's all in this brand new spring 2004 guide
Brand new 2004 guide to your gynaecological health, covering the taboo, from sexual health to smear tests and gynaecological conditions
Dr Sarah Brewer chats to iVillagers aboout lack of libido and going off sex
Dealing with all the horrible side effects associated with periods-from pains, craps and PMS to more serious conditions like endometriosis and fibroids in our period special
Gamete intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) is an assisted fertilisation technique, which is no longer used by most clinics in the United Kingdom. It can only be used where a woman has at least one normal fallopian tube.
Donor insemination (DI) is an assisted fertilisation technique in which sperm are provided by a donor rather than from the woman's usual partner
ICSI (intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection) is an assisted conception technique which may be used where a male has only a few live sperm or where sperm quality is poor or lacking.
What to do if you are in a relationship if you or your partner is obese.
We define the medical causes, symptoms, effects of obesity and the treatments available
Uesful obesity websites and organisations
We look at the latest research and what it is saying about obesity and our health.
It's No Smoking Day 2004 and Cancer Research UK look at the positive health benefits of giving uo smoking for good
Interview with Allen Carr, where he describes how he gave up smoking
We explore the symptoms of thrush or candida, and look at some effective ways of getting rid of it -for good.
Dr Sarah Brewer answers an array of questions on depression and how to help yourself
With 77 per cent of migraine sufferers experiencing nausea, we investigate the causes and suggest some useful survival tips
From belly button fluff and pins and needles to hiccups and yawns, our bodies are host to the most bizarre phenomena - and yet, so often, there seems to be no obvious explanation.
If you suffer from mild depression or are simply feeling low, self-help methods may help
Keep depression at bay with a healthy emotional life and mind
Dr Sarah Brewer explores what triggers depression in our brand new 2004 depression special.
How cognitive therapy helped one woman beat depression
One iVillager tells of how studying helped her out of the depths of dpressiona and self-harm
Some simple depression indicators and tips on how to help yourself out of depression
A story of how and iVillager fought teenage depression and self-harm and made a full recovery.
iVillagers give advice on holistic alternatives to prescription medication for treating depression
A brand new iVillage special on what causes thrush, the cures and keeping it at bay.
Psoriatic arthritis is a debilitating and painful disease. When one iVillager asked for help, another came to her aid with advice on what had helped her
Osteoarthritis is both debilitating and painful. When one iVillager suffering the disease asked for advice, fellow members flocked to her aid with their own experiences and remedies
This two part workshop talks about why we get turned on and looks at how we can make lifestyle changes to maximise sex drive and libido
This two part workshop talks about why we get turned on and looks at how we can make lifestyle changes to maximise sex drive and libido
Tips on how to improve your immune system throughout the winter months.
We look at some of the immediate side effects of the Aitkins diets, from bad breath and cramps to feeling dizzy and headaches,
Bad mood or depression - what's the difference? Bad moods are typically unpleasant but short emotional states, whereas depression drags on for weeks, or in some cases, far longer.
Keep well this Winter - stacks of health-boosting ideas, recipes and tips
One smoker tells her tale of how a session of hypnosis helped her kick the habit
Smokers oten neglect healthy eating habits. We look at how you can optimise your diet when you stop smoking.
Put simply, an occasional detox works because it gives your body a break.
Detoxing and improving your lifestyle on a day-to-day basis
You don't need to feel hungry on a detox plan, afterall, detox is all about indulging yourself.
A detox regime increases your intake of foods and drinks that serve our bodies well as building blocks.
It's time to focus on creating a healthy framework in which your body can work at its best, so you feel and look fantastic.
Lose weight, prevent bloating and clean up your act with the detox special
Dr Sarah Brewer explores your health niggles
Advertorial featuring treatments for allergies.
Dr Sarah Brewer, iVillage's resident expert, answered questions about gynaecological and sexual health from members on the Your Health message board
We look at the causes and symptoms behind restless legs and possible remedies and therapies.
Terminating a pregnancy is a major decision and a difficult one to make. Dr Sarah Brewer outlines the options
Contraception explained. Make the right choice of contraception. Trusted information to help you make an informed choice
Throw a pink party and raise funds for research into breast cancer
DVT: know the facts. Are you worried about deep vein thrombosis? Stay healthy in the air with our safe-flight guide
Are children eating too much salt? Know the facts and how to read food labels. Wynnie Chan reports.
How much water should we drink a day? In the wake of recent reports of water intoxication, iVillage Dr Sarah Brewer advises on how much water we need to drink
iVillage expert Dr Sarah Brewer joins the iVillage community to answer questions on how to take care of your skin in the sun
Discover more about the most common types of headache and how to prevent and treat them
Avoid food poisoning. There's nothing worse than being struck down by a bout of the trots while on holiday. Dr. Sarah Brewer advises on how to keep healthy in the heat
Latest health news - topical stories covering women's health issues
25 ways to improve your health. Small changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle
Increasing numbers of women admit to feeling tired all the time - a condition often referred to as TATT. Help is here
Why we should care about carers. One in eight people in Britain is a carer. Find out more
There's a secret society that still dares not speak its name. Yet 5.8 million people in Britain - that's one in eight of us - are members. Welcome to the world of the carer
Feeling furious? Women are prone to bottling up anger, which can have repercussions on their health.
Health news - keep abreast of latest women's health developments and campaigns
Running for fun - Charity Crewe shares her experience of running the London Marathon
Health news - keep abreast of latest women's health developments and campaigns
Combat stress, enhance your sex drive and improve your sleep patterns by making small changes to your diet? Here's how to eat your way to better health
Spring into shape with our motivational day-by-day detox plan
By the end of the week you'll be feeling slimmer, fitter and more energetic - and that's a promise. Spring detox week two
Health news - keep abreast of latest women's health developments and campaigns
Boost your positivity and feel even better about yourself with these tips from Susan Quilliam.
You shouldn't feel any different off the Pill from the way you do when you're on it, but there are still some surprising side-effects.
Feel fabulous and full of sparkle with these 10 fast energy injections
Quitting smoking can be tough. Beat your cravings with these five tips
The news that chocolate contains beneficial antioxidants sounds like a good excuse to stock up. But is it really good for us?
The lowdown on contraceptive intjections and how they work
The combined pill is usually just called the pill. Find out if it's right for you.
If you think you may be suffering from depression, you should arrange an appointment with your doctor and ask him these questions
How far would you go to get the perfect body this year?
How far would you go to get the perfect body this year?
Are you always tired? Do you find it impossible to get up in the morning? Are you lacking in the motivation to take any exercise? It sounds like you need to boost your energy
Aside from the obvious health hazards, smoking is also a pretty expensive habit. Work out just how much you spend on the evil weed.
The most commonly asked questions about stress answered.
The 3-step action plan to ease your tension and help you lead a more relaxing, more enjoyable and healthier life.
What is stress, what are the symptoms and what are the causes?
How to reduce stress levels through behavioural and relaxation techniques.
It's impossible to banish stress from your life altogether; the key is to know how to handle it when it occurs.
Health guru Leslie Kenton covers all aspects of physical, mental and spiritual health. She advocates that no matter what your chronological age, you can improve your quality of life the natural way.
Lynn Battle relives the practicalities - and emotions - of undergoing a biopsy for breast cancer
Christine Aziz discusses the treatment choices for breast cancer with sufferer Sarah Haynes and oncologist Dr Victor Barley
Reassure yourself by reading our most common embarrassing health questions.
Treat your mind, body and spirit to a trip to The Vitality Show
Tips to start off your weekend with a new outlook. Exerpts from The Weekend Healer by Jane Alexander.
This weekend plan will help cleanse and revitalise you - inside and out. An exerpt from The Weekend Healer by Jane Alexander.
This plan will give you increased energy all weekend long - and well into the working week. Excerpts from The Weekend Healer by Jane Alexander.
Discover more about the facts, myths and risks of breast cancer
Gloria Hunniford talks about how her husband's heart attack made her focus on her high cholesterol problem.
Excerpts from The Weekend Healer, by Jane Alexander.
If you suffer from anxiety, try these diet suggestions to help you stay calm.
Sue Gilbert explains how food can help you beat the blues
If you can't function in the morning without gallons of coffee and you run out of gas every afternoon, then this energy-boosting food plan is for you.
Dr Howard Lee explains the causes, symptoms and treatments of Parkinson's disease.
Tonsillitis is a common condition that mostly affects children starting school or nursery. Dr Howard Lee examines the causes, symptoms and treatments.
It's hard, but it's the best decision you'll ever make - quit smoking now and let Nicorette help you through the tough times.
It's one of the latest 'alternative' therapies to hook the celebrity crowd, but are there any genuine health benefits to polarity therapy? Anne Woodham investigates
It's one of the latest 'alternative' therapies to hook the celebrity crowd, but are there any genuine health benefits to polarity therapy? Anne Woodham investigates
Like the idea of cleansing your skin from the inside out? Lynn Grieger explains how the Better Skin Diet could do exactly that.
It's one of the latest 'alternative' therapies to hook the celebrity crowd, but are there any genuine health benefits to polarity therapy? Anne Woodham investigates
Despair no more: Lynn Grieger's eating plan could put an end to those long, sleepless nights
Overeating and excessive dieting both increase a woman's health risks, but the effects become more life-threatening when preoccupation turns to disorder. Dr Lesley Hickin explains
You've heard of it, but do you really know what it is? Dr. Lesley Hickin explains shingles.
Ear problems and travel sickness - how to prevent or beat them.
On June 1st 2002 12 members of the breast cancer board met for the first time. Party host and CL Maggie Mac describes this incredible day.
We test five popular sun screens for safety and effectiveness
Bingeing, secretive eating and sudden weight loss are just a few of the signs of an eating disorder. Susan Quilliam advises on what to do and how to help
What to do if your partner suffers from depression
Does your man look after his health? The complete guide to men's health.
Discover the causes of back pain as well as the treatments, therapies and tips to help ease it
A quiz to find out what you know about the biggest male health concerns
Varicose veins are usually harmless, but they can be disfiguring. Find out how to treat them
Depression and tiredness can be caused by thyroid problems
Acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha-lipoic acid have been shown to reverse the ageing process in rats. Can it work in humans?
understand strokes and how they are treated
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Dr Lesley Hickin explains the history, benefits and dangers of aspirin
unless pelvic inflammatory diease (PID) is treated quickly, complications and risk of infertility can occur
The use of herbalism, homeopathy, nutritional therapy and acupuncture in relieving the symptoms of hay fever
read about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis
the Mirena coil not only acts as a contraceptive, but can reduce heavy periods as well
Diabetes is increasing at a worrying rate. Read about the causes and prevention of Types 1 and 2 diabetes, from iVillage expert Lesley Hickin.
Win tickets to the Vitality Show with Copella, the UK's biggest showcase for complementary health, beauty and fitness
Chemicals in cigarette smoke are more dangerous than nicotine. Learn the facts.
It's one of the most important times to give up smoking: when you are pregnant.
here's how to deal with your craving to smoke when you're trying to give up
Swap the pain of smoking and nicotine addiction for a happy, healthy life.
Receive 7 daily inspirational text messages by calling the iVillage Stop Smoking SMS Support service
One of the most important aspects of taking antidepressants is when and how to eventually come off them. Dr Lesley Hickin investigates
the Mirena coil not only acts as a contraceptive, but can reduce heavy periods as well
craniosacral therapy applies gentle pressure to the head in order to rebalance body and mind
The herb devil's claw root is anti-inflammatory and helps back pain and osteoarthritis.
Does your hair need a new life? Give your locks an instant lift with these simple strategies
If left untreated high blood pressure can have severe health repercussions
Psoriasis is a distressing skin condition. We investigate its causes and treatments
What's the best way to give up smoking? Will the 'odd one' hurt? Find the answers to all your questions about quitting.
Cutting down, tablets or patches? We explain what each method means and how effective it will be
Frightened to give up smoking in case you gain weight. We answer your fears
Talking to someone while who stop smoking has been found to greatly increase your chances of quitting.
Quitting when you are pregnant sounds easy. It's not. Find out why you should stop now and follow these helpful tips.
Treat your Valentine to a champagne flight in the London Eye - and help raise money for Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital
what is schizophrenia and how is it diagnosed and treated? ivillage and SANE explain
Fibromyalgia is common disorder characterised by musculoskeletal pain and fatigue
The latest information on HIV and Aids
Jet lag can spoil a holiday, so try these complementary ways to minimise the effects
rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes joints to become inflamed and painful
This is your chance to win a winter pack to give you some comfort on that cold winter's day.
Read about the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer
Read about the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of breast cancer
Doctors claim more than 60 per cent of sexually active adults are have HPV and it's implicated in cervical cancer
They are unsightly and ache, so what can you do about varicose veins?
Excess hair, acne and irregular periods are all signs of PCOS
Osteoarthritis - understanding this painful condition and how to treat its symptoms
It's probably the busiest time of your life, but finding time to stay fit is better than an insurance policy
How to preserve your fertility as you get older.
Emergency contraception - what it is, how it works and how to get hold of it.
iVillage expert Gillian Lockwood explains the affect that age has on your fertility.
Fertility tests and treatments available if you don?t get pregnant
Female sterilisation - how effective the operation is and what to expect
The Family Planning Association explain what happens when you have a vasectomy and whether there are any health or sexual implications.
Candida - alternative treatments for irritating infections.
good oral hygiene is an insurance policy for the future
find out about painful conditions that can be caused by cold weather
Keep fit while you're young and reap the benefits
if you want to relieve symptoms of menopause but don't want to take HRT, what are the natural alternatives?
All you need to treat those everyday - and not so everyday - aches and pains
If you suffer from flaking or dandruff, try these strategies to banish it for good.
This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment.
Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women in the UK. So it's important to make time for your smear test.
Your early 20s are the time to start picking up healthy eating habits for life
Find out the importance of checking your blood pressure.
Find out why it's important to screen for high cholesterol.
Diabetes happens when the amount of glucose in the blood is too high. Who should be tested for it?
Bowel cancer tends to affect those in their 50s and 60s. Find out about the signs and symptoms.
Anxiety, phobias and obessssions are all normal to a certain degree, but extremes can be very disturbing
Insomnia is the second most common cause of absenteeism from work after motherhood. Are you stuck in the vicious circle of sleeplessness?
Depression is the most common mental illness, but there are degrees of suffering which need special help. Find out the facts.
How to examine your breast in your home for any tell-tale signs.
It doesn't take long to screen for cervical, breast and testicular cancer, and it could save your life
It's easy to neglect vitamins when your life is busy but do it and you'll feel the health benefits,
Watch your calories and fat intake for a healthy middle age
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers. Make time for your smear test.
Having your blood pressure checked is a really simple and painless examination.
It doesn't take long to screen for cervical, breast and testicular cancer, and it could save your li
It doesn't take long to screen for cervical, breast and testicular cancer, and it could save your life
The best way of preventing breast cancer is to examine your breasts yourself. Here's how.
Common dental problems can be beaten by good oral hygiene
Medical treatment for the common condition of fibroids
If you're staring at a computer screen all day, how can you minimise risk to your eyes?
Dr Wynnie Chan explains why it?s not only men who should worry about CHD
After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis one woman changed her life for the better.
Does lack of light during winter affect your work? Find out about winter weather and work. You don’t have to be sad.
ME, or chronic fatigue syndrome, baffles doctors. Read up on it for the latest information
Indigestion causes pain and discomfort in a third of the population. Symptoms shouldn?t be ignored
No one wants to experience pain so find the best ways to fight it
Nowadays we're spoiled for choice when choosing contact lenses. What's best for you?
This painful, sometimes embarrassing condition causes bloating, abdominal pain and unpredictable bowel habits
Follow this simple eating guide and make PMS symptoms a thing of the past
Chlamydia - diagnosing and treating this genital infection that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility
Ten years ago Lynn Griffiths was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has since battled with three subsequent cases of cancer and survived. Read her powerful story.
Sheila Hancock talks to iVillagers about her fight against breast cancer
A healthy diet, exercise and positive thinking are some of the things you can do to improve your well being after treatment. Find out how to feel better during your recovery process.
Sexually transmitted infections are on the increase. Cadillac Carter outlines the reasons to be careful
It's hard to separate fact from fiction when it comes to finding out the truth about breast cancer. Jane Ehrlich aims to set the record straight.
Candida ? alternative treatments for irritating infections
Period pains cause havoc in many women?s lives every month, so get advice on how to cope
Cystitis affects 50 per cent of women read how to avoid and treat the condition
Bach flower remedies rely on flowers to restore good health.
The herb chamomile helps to calm and relax as well as improving digestive disorders
The wonderful ginger root can help with all sorts of nausea, from morning sickness to travel sickness
Recognise the symptoms of a migraine and find appropriate treatment
The jury is out on whether zinc can speed up recovery from colds, but it could be worth trying.
The menopause can affect your libido, but doesn't mean the end of your sex life
An explanation of lupus, a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many parts of the body
Glucosamine, a naturally occurring chemical, can help with arthritis pain relie: iVillage
How do you know when you have reached the menopause? And what is perimenopause?
Thrush and cystitis can easily be confused, but it's important to tell the difference
Some of the most important vitamins belong to the B group. Read about why we need them and how much to take.
Chiropractic eases the pain of lower back disorders, poor posture and musculo-skeletal problems.
Hair loss can be devastating for women, but there are treatments to help.
It may be beyond scientific understanding, but homeopathy continues to be one of the most popular complementary therapies in the UK.
Try our sample diet plan to get more heart healthy in one week: iVillage
Eating healthily throughout the winter can help you stave off illness and fatigue: iVillage
Dr. Wynnie Chan explains what osteoporosis is and how to prevent it through healthy eatin: iVillage
A look at a newly identified eating disorder characterised by 50 percent of one’s daily calories being consumed late in the evening and in the middle of the nigh: iVillage
Do your emotions get in the way of your eating habits? If so, you may be an emotional overeate: iVillage
Author and slimming coach, Judith Verity, offers useful tips on how to feel better about yourself and your life: iVillage
From Ancient Greece to the second millennium, people have always found imaginative ways to abuse their relationship with food. Here are just a few of them: iVillage
By teaching you to improve your posture the Alexander Technique could make your backache and headaches a thing of the past: iVillage
Try sample moves of this fantastic posture correcting techniqu: iVillage
iVillage nutrition expert Dr Wynnie Chan, outlines how a lack of selenim in our diets may be causing us to feel depressed: iVillage
Feeling fluey or down in the dumps? Whatever your ailment, this guide to natural supplement remedies is sure to give you an instant lift: iVillage
Fluid retention or 'bloating' is a common problem, but it can be treated and even avoided: iVillage
Leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree help with memory loss and circulatory disorder: iVillage
Find out how to make your smile brighter and teeth white: iVillage
Endometriosis, tissue that normally lines the womb grows in other body parts and causes pain and scar tissu: iVillage
iVillage: A Reiki practitioner balances your chakras, or 'energy centres', by working intuitively to sense any imbalances in the physical and etheric fields, thereby helping the physical body to heal itself.
Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years as a cure-all for numerous ailments: iVillage
Arnica is a popular herbal remedy to banish bruises
Blisters and what to do about the: iVillage
Choking - how to deal with adults and children who are chokin: iVillage
Cuts and scrapes and what to do about the: iVillage
Poisoning and what to d: iVillage
Shock and fainting - how do deal with someone in this condition
Unconsciousness - how to revive an unconcious adult or chil: iVillage
Artificial respiration - how to administer it if someone has stopped breathin: iVillage
Bleeding and nosebleeds - how to administer first ai: iVillage