2019-03-29

Health | A thing to consider in family planning


Breaking barrier and misconceptions key to sustain acceptance and utilization of modern contraception.

As the government intensifies the implementation of its family planning program in the next four years, much more needs to be done to educate Filipinos about the importance of reproductive health and to correct the misconceptions about modern contraception.

Despite the availability and accessibility of different types of contraceptive methods, accelerating the acceptance and utilization is still hindered by misconceptions and lack of knowledge on modern contraception.

“Following the launch of the first World Contraception Day Philippines in 2018, we want to continue the conversation to empower and educate Filipino women and couples to make informed choices about their reproductive and sexual health,” said JunIl Kim, Country Division Head, Bayer Pharmaceuticals.

Among the types of modern contraceptives, the pill, Intrauterine System (IUS), female sterilization, contraceptive patch and injection are the most effective types of interventions with ~99% efficacy, when administered correctly and used with 100% accuracy. However, male condom, fertility awareness trackers and withdrawal method remain to be the most commonly used with approximately 72-82% efficacy. [i]

Earlier, the government has announced the implementation of an intensified family planning program nationwide targeting 11.3 million women over the next four years. This is to increase the usage of contraceptives among Filipinos from 40 percent to 65 percent.

Via Antonio, actress, comedian and a mom, talked about her own experiences in pursuit of better reproductive and physical health, “In this day and age, reproductive health remains to be a taboo topic, even among women. Many are using contraception for various reasons yet no one is openly talking about it. The stigma on birth control is alive.”

Dr. Amity Casurao-Trono, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at St. Luke’s Medical Center Q.C and Rizal Medical Center, shed light on the myths and misconceptions about modern contraceptives during her “Pillowtalk” session held in Makati City.

In 2018, an estimated 25.8% or 7.1 million Filipinas aged 15-49, are using modern contraception, an increase of 1.2 million since 2012.[ii]

Oral contraceptives or the pill remains to be one of the most effective and preferred form of modern contraception among Filipinas because they are convenient, non-invasive and reversible. It comes in two types --- the combined oral contraceptive (COC) pill, which contains both progestin and estrogen hormones and the Mini Pill or progestin-only pill (POP).

Progestin is the main contraceptive ingredient that prevents ovulation, thins out the uterine lining and thickens cervical mucus such that sperm cannot pass through. Ethinyl estradiol, the synthetic female hormone, stabilizes the endometrium and enhances the action of progestin. Dr. Casurao-Trono clarified and put sense into the most prevalent myths about the use of COCs.

Pills do not cause birth defects: No adverse effects were observed when COCs were accidentally taken during early pregnancy. Past COC use is not associated with an increase in spontaneous abortions.[iii]

Pills do not increase cancer risk: Studies have not established strong and direct links between breast cancer and pill usage. In fact, the risk of cancer lowered with COC use. It reduces risks for certain cancers such as ovarian cancer (~40% lower), endometrial cancer (~50% lower) and colorectal cancer (~20% lower)[iv]. However, it does not protect from sexually transmitted diseases.

Pills do not make you infertile: 21% of women get pregnant after one month of stopping taking COCs and 79% get pregnant after one year of stopping.[v]

Pills, depending on the formulation and indication, also treat a variety of hormone-related conditions and imbalances such as hyperandrogenism, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe and debilitating form of PMS. Over 88% of women receiving COCs report no adverse effects.[vi]

Aside from preventing unintended pregnancies, selected COC pills offer added benefits beyond contraception such as reducing estrogen-related fluid retention and bloating because of its anti-mineralocorticoid property. It regulates hormonal problems such as acne, facial hair and hair loss due to its anti-androgenic quality. Some COC pills also come in a 24/4 regimen that promotes user compliance. Despite its additional benefits, OB-GYNs highly recommend women to go on a healthy diet and take regular exercise to achieve the desired results.

Like any other medication, it comes with some common side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness and headache, which are tolerable.[vii]

Some contraindications to taking the pills are presence or history of Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism, Myocardial Infarction, Ischemic.

Note:
Ang pangunahing nais ng mga nabanggit na experto sa artikulong ito ay kaligtasan para sa mga kapwa kong kababaihan at magbigay kaalaman. Mainam magpatinggin sa lisensyadong doktor bago gumamit ng ano mang uri ng kotrasepto dahil iba-iba ang takbo ng systema sa ating katawan. Marahil okay sa kanya ang gamot na iyon, pwede na rin sainyo? hindi po, nilalagay nyo po sa panganib ang iyong kalusugan. Sa ilang taong ginuhol ng mga experto upang mag-bigay serbisyo para sa atin, hindi po ba tayo magtitiwala?

To learn more and find fellow amiga follow the official Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/wcdphilippines/

Entertainment | Pinoy toy collectors unite at the National Toy Swap Meet Summer Edition 2019


Before the global film releases of comic book titles from Marvel Studios, Disney and DC. There's a toy convention event with over 60 plus exhibitors have gathered in Metro Manila. The National Swap Meet Summer Edition 2019, March 29 - 31, 2019 at Megatrade Hall 2, SM Megamall, Ortigas.

I went there with my friends on the first day and the attendees keep coming in and out until the event hits the mall's closing hour. What does this event have and made us head home late? First, there's a Thanos figure guarding the gates of the event hall, hard to passby, kidding aside. Second, the booths have tons of collectibles not limited to western but also eastern titles, lego bricks, funko pops, trading cards, vintage gaming consoles with games, good condition vintage comics, movie posters sealed in acrylic frame, ball jointed dolls and fan art merchandises from our local artists. Third, the weekend have a fun competition with mini-drone race, and Tamiya racing. They also have live local band performances.



There's almost 20 toy collection displays from various group of hobbyists. My personal favorites are series were Sailor Moon, Disney Chumchum and Digimon.

Since the event is about toys, NSM3 brought in some fun games. Lucky winners received goodies from their major sponsors. In between games, they have this sessions / lectures from toy collectors and toy makers, where they share their experiences of their love for their craft or hobby.

The highlight of the event is the toy auction for a cause. The set of items were from all participating exhibitors, toy swappers and guests. A percentage of the money will proceed to their chosen non-organization, Link Center for the Deaf. Winning the bidding will not only make your kid at heart happy but meaningful when you know it can help our community.

If you're new to toy collecting or veteran toy collector in the Philippines, you better watch out for another National Swap Meet. The community are kind enough to help you to find the toys that you're looking for.

Follow National Swap Meet official Facebook page here:
https://www.facebook.com/NationalSwapMeet/

#NationalSwapMeetSummerEdition2019
#NationalSwapMeet2019
#NSM3
#SwapTillYouDrop

PS. I won the tickets from Hits & Mrs. giveaway on Facebook. Thank you so much!

2019-03-23

Fashion | Carlo Rossi have something pink to add in your pink collection

Featuring Paul Semira's pink collection inspired from Carlo Rossi Pink Moscato photo by Jhosh Rodriguez


Carlo Rossi Pink Moscato is a sweet pink wine that features flavors of peach layered with sweet aromatics and tropic fruits. Subtle floral notes with a hint of red fruit and citrus together give the wine a pleasing finish. Enjoy Chilled.

Carlo Rossi Pink Moscato is prized for its crisp texture and refreshing mouthfeel. Carlo Rossi Vineyards has successfully cultivated Moscato grapes in specially selected California vineyards. The area's unique climate and new technologies available to winemakers give Carlo Rossi Pink Moscato a style of its own.

The pink wine was introduced to the Trade in a Pink Evening last March 22, 2019, held at the poolside of the newly-opened Savoy Hotel in Newport City, Pasay. The event featured an all-pink themed night with distinguished guests from the Trade and fiends of Carlo Rossi. It was a night of learning, food and games. 

Stunning pink collection were made by renowned stylist, Paul Semira drawn inspiration from Carlo Rossi's Pink Moscato.

Follow Carlo Rossi on their official FB page:
https://www.facebook.com/CarloRossiPhilippines/

Used photo with permission of fashion collection from 
https://www.facebook.com/JhoshRodriguezPhotography/.
Thank you.