Market Update - 1 November 2012

• It was back to work in the US as the NYSE reopened overnight on generator power and swung between negative and positive territory as the market digested data that business activity in the US contracted again in October as well as the impact of Sandy.

• Oil added 0.7% while gasoline jumped 1.2% on the day, the S&P 500 index closed just 0.1% in the black at 1413.51 as the automobile sector surged on General Motors strong profits release and the utilities and consumer goods sectors also gained.

• USDMYR opens where it closed yesterday at 3.0500. Volumes have remained low but we might see some volatility today and tomorrow ahead of the crucial US NFP numbers to be released on Friday as well as the US presidential election that’s coming next week, baring any rescheduling. Erm…somehow I feel the NFP number will be a good one ahead of the elections…….

• Finance Minister Yiannis Stournaras submitted the 2013 budget to the Greek parliament overnight and has predicted that under such measures, the level of public debt to GDP will hit 189.1% against 179.3% in previous draft, an economic contraction of 4.5% will occur in 2012 against a 3.8% previous estimate and it will achieve a primary surplus of 0.4% of GDP. Following that Stournaras spoke to eurozone finance ministers to discuss ways to fill the financing gap.

• German finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said after the phone call that no deal had been done yet and that Greece had to meet conditions before the next tranche of its bailout will be paid.

• Eurozone unemployment was released and it hit a record 11.6% in September from 10.3% a year ago, led by Spain and Greece with 25.8% and 25.1% unemployment respectively, while the inflation data released alongside showed that it eased to 2.5% in October, still 0.5% above the ECB’s target rate of 2.0%.

• As the storm starts to die down the US Bureau of Labor Statistics have confirmed that the October monthly payrolls will still be released on November 2, a crucial figure ahead of the election on November 6.

• UK Prime Minister David Cameron has received a clear message from his constituents as the Conservatives combined with Labour to demand he push for a reduction in the European Union’s budget spending. The European Commission has proposed a spending package of 1.03 trillion euros for 2014-2020, up 6% from the 2007-2013 budget, and the vote has urged him to go into the negotiations in Brussels on November 22-23 to reduce that figure in real-terms, rather than just prevent it increasing.

INSIDE ASIA: Yen Weakens; China Manufacturing PMI Improves

Nov. 1 (Bloomberg) -- Most currencies trade within 0.1% of yesterday’s closing levels as regional stocks retreat; bond yields rise in Japan and Thailand, while Thai swap curve flattens.

* China manufacturing PMI for October comes in at 50.2, matching median est. of economists in Bloomberg survey; reading was 49.8 in September

* U.S. Treasuries fall, with yield on 10-year notes climbing 2 bps to 1.708%; Fed reiterated yesterday it expects to reach federal debt limit near year-end; plans to sell $72b in notes and bonds next week

* Yen declines against both dollar and euro; Japanese investors bought 251.8 billion yen ($3.2 billion) in overseas bonds and notes in week ended Oct. 26, according to figures based on reports from designated major investors released by Ministry of Finance

* Australian dollar steady after China PMI data, while 10-year snap four-day rally; nation’s manufacturing shrinks for eighth month, with October index at 45.2 from 44.1 in September: Australian Industry Group and

PricewaterhouseCoopers survey

* Won trades near 13-month high vs dollar; South Korea’s consumer prices climbed 2.1% Y/y in October after 2.0% gain in September; exports +1.2% in Oct. vs est. -0.7% and revised -2.0% in Sept.; imports +1.5% vs est. +0.7% and -6.1% in Sept.

* Hong Kong dollar trades at HK$7.7501 vs U.S.counterpart, approaching stronger side of permitted convertibility range of HK$7.75 to HK$7.85 that obligates intervention; HKMA intervened for sixth time in less than two weeks yesteday to defend peg by adding HK$2.71b ($350m) to banking system

* Indonesia’s sovereign 10-year bonds had second monthly gain in October; nation’s inflation was 4.59% Y/y in October, according to median est. of economists in Bloomberg survey before data due today; September reading was 4.31%

* Thailand’s one-year swap rate unchanged, while five-year contracts drop 2 bps; nation’s consumer prices rose 3.4% Y/y in October after climbing 3.38% in September, according to median est. of economists in Bloomberg survey before official data due today

 

* Malaysia’s ringgit snaps two-day rally; global investors boosted holdings of Malaysian local-currency debt by 7.8% in September M/m to record 215.46b ringgit ($71b), central bank data show

WHAT THEY PREDICT:

* State Street Global Advisors prefers Philippine longer-term sovereign bonds as inflation in $225b Southeast Asian economy cools, according to Asia-Pacific head of fixed income, Kheng-Siang Ng (see story here)

* Standard Chartered says QE3 continues to sustain foreign inflows to EM bonds and expects investors to continue to search for carry trades in EM near-term as risk appetite remains weak, it writes in note

* Near-term technicals favor Australian and New Zealand currencies as well as peso, Bloomberg economist Tamara Hendersonwrites in note; DMI-14 and MACD favor AUD, NZD and PHP against USD and INR; RSI-9 and Bollinger bands set at 2 standard deviations suggest buying USD/KRW, against DMI and MACD sell signals

DEBT ISSUES:

* Genesis Power sells NZ$50m of bonds due in November 2019: Westpac statement

* EDC hires banks for tap of Kangaroo bonds due in August 2017: ANZ statement

* China Overseas marketing bond sale of up to $1b: Hong Kong Economic Journal

CURRENCY LEVELS AND TECHNICALS (as of 9:05 a.m. HKT)

* EUR/USD 1.2963; pivot 1.2976; support 1.2930; resistance 1.3005

* EUR/JPY 103.55; pivot 103.47; support 102.99; resistance 103.85

* USD/JPY 79.88; pivot 79.75; support 79.54; resistance 79.98

* GBP/USD 1.6127; pivot 1.6112; support 1.6085; resistance 1.6156

* EUR/CHF 1.2073; pivot 1.2075; support 1.2063; resistance 1.2086

* EUR/GBP 0.8038; pivot 0.8046; support 0.8018; resistance 0.8064

* USD/CHF 0.9316; pivot 0.9308; support 0.9284; resistance 0.9340

* USD/CAD 0.9997; pivot 0.9990; support 0.9965; resistance 1.0018 

* AUD/USD 1.0381; pivot 1.0376; support 1.0353; resistance 1.0400

* NZD/USD 0.8222; pivot 0.8218; support 0.8206; resistance 0.8236

* USD/SGD 1.2202; pivot 1.2200; support 1.2187; resistance 1.2214

* USD/CNY 6.2372; pivot 6.2394; support 6.2350; resistance 6.2415

* USD/KRW 1,090.73; pivot 1,090.69; support 1,090.00; resistance 1,091.38

* USD/TWD 29.26; pivot 29.2493; support 29.2187; resistance 29.2907

* USD/THB 30.7; pivot 30.6900; support 30.6500; resistance 30.7300

* USD/MYR 3.0495; pivot 3.0504; support 3.0427; resistance 3.0553

* USD/PHP 41.175; pivot 41.1883; support 41.1467; resistance 41.2167

* USD/IDR 9,607.5; pivot 9,617.33; support 9,598.67; resistance 9,626.67

* USD/INR 53.814; pivot 53.9321; support 53.6567; resistance 54.0892

LATEST INTERBANK RATES (as of yesterday)

* USD 3-mo. Libor 0.313%

* China1-mo. Shibor 4.2175%

* Singapore$ 3-mo. 0.37917%

* Taiwanovernight 0.388%

Malaysia Palm Oil SGS Data 1-31 October 2012

SGS (1-31Oct) = 1567112v 1280652(up 9.3%)

Market Update - 31 October 2012

• US Markets were closed last night as Hurricane Sandy whips the U.S East Coast for the second day, US stock markets to reopen today after the worst storm in 75 years suspended trading for 2 days.
• Little movement overnight with Sandy hogging the headlines and trade volumes are low in Europe and Asia opened following suit.
• USDMYR opened at 3.0500 and we expect little movement, moreover its month end and year end, volumes are expected to be low today with range trading expected.
• Taiwan's economy expands by 1.02% y/y in 3Q12, lower than the 1.5% survey estimate.
• Walt Disney Co. to buy Lucasfilms Ltd for USD4.05bil in cash and stock, making it the owner of Hollywood's two most lucrative franchises. George Lucas will remain actively involved as creative consultant and become the largest non-institutional shareholder after receiving 40 million Disney shares.
• Yesterday, FBM KLCI was up 0.13% to 1,674.67
• New oilfield was discovered opposite Pahang, 160km off the off the shores of Peninsula Malaysia with an estimated depth of 76m. PM says Pahang is expected to receive a special payment of RM100mil per annum once production begins

Malaysia Palm Oil ITS Data 1-31 October 2012

ITS (1-31 Oct) = 1600545v 1443836(up 10.85%)

Market Update - 30 October 2012

• Beginning with the Eurozone, Spiegel magazine obtained a draft version of the Troika report on Greece that calls on European bodies and official creditors to write off a chunk of their loans, while Greece must carry out further reforms that involve significant loss in sovereignty. This proposal was actively hosed by Merkel’s spokesman, Steffen Seibert, as “out of the question” when speaking to reporters in Berlin overnight, so it remains to be seen what, if anything, will happen when the final report is out on November 12 on Greece’s progress in meeting its debt targets.

• Official data out early in the session showed that Spanish retail sales slipped 10.9% in September on a year-on-year basis, leading the FTSE 100 around 0.45% lower, IBEX down 0.37% and DAX off 0.45%, but later in the session data on German wages released showed that they had their sharpest rise in almost four years in its July survey, up 3.2% on a year-on-year basis led by chemicals and metal industries.

• USDMYR tracking the mild risk off environment opened higher at 3.0600. Expected trading range for the week still in 3.0300-3.0800 with volatility expected due to the low volume.

• Mario Monti and Mariano Rajoy met in Madrid last night and reaffirmed their support to help Greece remain in the Eurozone, while both were a little drawn on the plans for an EU ‘super commisioner’. Monti said that such a commissioner would be a sign of mistrust, and that Europe is “facing adolescent difficulties- spots and mood swings”.

• The US front was quiet overnight as stock trading was cancelled for a second day with the threat of Hurricane Sandy continuing to bear down upon the East cost. The shutdown was the first for consecutive days due to weather since 1888 and exchanges are planning to reopen on October 31, weather permitting.

• Gasoline futures jumped 2.6% as the immediate impact of the storm weighed on investor sentiment more than the backdrop of global growth continuing to slow while yields on Treasury 10-year notes fell to almost a two-week low in the shortened session, admittedly on small volumes.

• With regards to indices, stocks fell on the day in a quiet start to the week due to Hurricane Sandy, the FTSE100 fell 0.2% to 5,795.1 on the close led by BT Group Plc and Hargreaves Lansdown Plc as investors continued to speculate on when a Spanish bailout request may come. Elsewhere, markets ended on a downbeat note, CAC fell 0.76%, DAX dropped 0.4% and the IBEX was off 0.6%.

Market Update 29 October 2012

· Mix headlines to start the week and we are inching closer to the US elections on 6^thNovember….

 

· S&P lowered its long-term rating on BNP Paribas to "A+" from "AA-" & also cut smaller players Banque Solfea and Cofidis. In addition it placed 10 others on negative outlook including Credit Agricole and Societe Generale.

 

· US GDP 3^rd Qtr +2.0% (exp 1.8%, prior 1.3%) was strong. Federal Spending +9.6% contributed +0.7% to the total number. Sceptics put this down to the impending election. Residential Homebuilding was the other standout sector +14.4%. The negative drought related fall in farm inventoried (subtracting -0.4% from GDP) but this will be temporary in effect. Also Business investment -1.3% with suggestions investment is being put off until after the fiscal cliff.

 

· USDMYR opened below 3.0500 today on the back of strong US GDP numbers as we continue to see the USDMYR range shift down to 3.0300-3.0800. Volumes could be low today as quite a number are still away on the long weekend.

 

· We’ve just heard that the NYSE will be closed tonight in light of the hurricane headed their way, we’ll have to wait and see if other exchanges are affected.

 

· Spanish Q3 unemployment prints 25.02%, almost right on expectations.

 

· ECB’s Nowotny said Spain does not at present need a bailout & should continue to refinance through the regular mkt. He also said it would be a good idea to give Greece more time to repay debt as the alternative would be too dangerous but noted that is a political decision.

· ECB’s Nowotony again...says he is sceptical funds from the ESM can be deployed in a timely fashion

· All this has equities struggling from the start. Only USGDP (below) printing well pulled them back up a little. Early safety bid seen in Bunds with techs buying the break of 140.75. The US Treasuries made and then closed on new weekly highs.

 

· Draghi backs Germany’s call for an EU “super-commisioner” that would have the power to veto national budgets. Both Draghi & Schaueble believe this would bring trust and stability back to the zone.

· Feds Lacker continued to beat the drum, dissenting is basis inflation fears:

1. FED STATEMENT IMPLIES COMMITMENT TO KEEP RATES EXCEPTIONALLY LOW AFTER “MARKED” REBOUND; NOT BE APPROPRIATE
2. FACTORS IMPEDING JOBS RECOVERY BEYOND MONETARY POLICY CONTROL
3. MORE STIMULUS COULD RAISE INFLATION IN WAY THAT DESTABILIZES INFLATION EXPECTATIONS

· Italy’s Berlusconi sentenced to 4 years prison (reduced to 12 months due to overcrowding) for tax fraud. 

· Some negative headlines circulating on China Life (worlds biggest insurer by mkt cap, US$82bln) reportings. They lost 2.2bln yuan last qtr (from 3.75bln profit a year ago). Clearly not a good story but when you consider major competitor Ping An is expected to have doubled its qtrly profit when reporting tomorrow it looks a lot more like poor management that a bearish China story.

Malaysia Palm Oil SGS Data 1-25 Oct 2012

SGS (1-25Oct) = 1280658 v1170085(u​p 9.45%)

Asian Currencies Advance After Fed Maintains Stimulus Policies

By David Yong

Oct. 25 (Bloomberg) -- Asian currencies strengthened as regional stocks snapped a four-day slump after the Federal Reserve said it will maintain pro-growth policies to support a recovery in the world's largest economy.

The Bloomberg-JPMorgan Asia Dollar Index, which tracks the region's 10 most-active Asian currencies outside of Japan, rose toward an eight-month high set on Oct. 18. The Fed yesterday repeated interest rates may stay near zero at least through mid-2015 and kept unchanged a bond-purchase plan unveiled last month. China's yuan hit a 19-year high and Malaysia's ringgit climbed the most in a week on optimism the U.S. central bank's policies will support demand for higher-yielding assets.

"We expect Asian currencies to continue to show moderate strength," said Roy Teo, a foreign-exchange strategist in Singapore at ABN Amro Bank NV. "The Fed will keep buying bonds, maybe add Treasuries to its purchases, to support growth."

The ringgit gained 0.4 percent to 3.0490 per dollar as of 11:10 a.m. in Kuala Lumpur, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Taiwan's dollar appreciated 0.3 percent to NT$29.266 and the won climbed 0.2 percent to 1,102.10.

The Fed called U.S. growth "moderate" and maintained its open-ended program to buy $40 billion of mortgage-backed bonds a month, after a two-day policy meeting in Washington yesterday.

Foreign investors have plowed almost $8 billion into the stock markets of India, South Korea and Indonesia since the program was announced on Sept. 13, exchange data show.

U.S. Recovery

The Asia Dollar Index rose 0.14 percent, the most in a week, while its 60-day historical volatility fell to 2.17 percent from 2.30 percent. New home sales in America rose 5.7 percent last month, the most since April 2010, a report showed yesterday.

"Expectations that the U.S. will continue to grow have helped improve risk appetite," said Saktiandi Supaat, head of foreign-exchange research at Malayan Banking Bhd. in Singapore.

"The better home sales data in the U.S. also helped."
China's yuan gained 0.08 percent to 6.2428 per dollar after rising as high as 6.2424, the strongest level since the government unified the official and market exchange rates at the end of 1993. The central bank set its daily yuan reference rate stronger for the first time in five days.

'Support the Yuan'

"We are seeing more bets on a rebound in China's growth in the coming quarters," said Daniel Chan, executive vice president at Glory Sky Global Markets Ltd. in Hong Kong. "The weakness in the dollar will also support the yuan as the Fed continues with quantitative easing."

The Philippine peso was steady at 41.348 per dollar. Fourteen of 21 economists in a Bloomberg survey forecast the central bank will cut its overnight rate to 3.5 percent from 3.75 percent today. Seven expect no change. The decision is due at about 4 p.m. local time.

Elsewhere, Thailand's baht rose 0.1 percent to 30.69 per dollar. Indonesia's rupiah fell 0.2 percent to 9,624 and Vietnam's dong was steady at 20,850. Financial markets in Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Singapore will be closed tomorrow for a holiday.

Malaysia Palm Oil ITS Data 1-25 October 2012

ITS (1-25 Oct) = 1300495v11​70720(up 11%)

Market Update - 25 October 2012

• The FOMC meeting was a bit of a fizzer in the end, we had minor language changes with the Fed saying that household spending and inflation picked up somewhat while they offered no new guidance on policy.

• In his speech, Bernanke acknowledged the fall in the unemployment rate to 7.8% but he labelled it a “wiggle” in the data and would want to see sustained improvement before altering his course. Operation twist will expire in December so we might see more on that at the next meeting but of course the fiscal question in the US will be looming very large indeed at that point.

• USDMYR tracked the US equities and opened lower at 3.0550, I expect with the long weekend we could see some squaring of positions towards 2^nd half of the day and give us a touch of movement on the pair. Trading range unchanged at 3.0400-3.0900.

• Dollar rates again inched higher and there are more talks of rate rise coming in early 2014 instead of the 2015/2016 that was being expected.

• The Euro fell early after PMI figures fell again in the Euro Zone, in particular the German manufacturing PMI fell to 45.7 from 48 after 3 months of gains prior. Also, the German IFO business climate fell to 100 from 101.6, that’s now as low as it’s been since early 2010. So the data backing up the fears aired yesterday over German growth going forward, and the obvious problem of the troubles Southern Europe faces if the core drags it down.

• Equities in Europe eked out gains with the Eurostoxx up 0.5% while in the US the major indices were subdued and closed near their session lows, the S&P down 0.3% and treasury yields up 3bps on the night.

• Gold fell $5 to $1702 while oil fell $1 to $85.70 and copper stabilized after the stronger Chinese datum yesterday.

• Mario Draghi took his OMT plan into the lion’s den overnight, appearing before policy makers in an attempt to persuade them of the need for the Outright Monetary Transactions. He was received well according to sources but some remained sceptical, calling him a “dove under hawk’s feathers”.

• There was also more speculation over whether or not Greece had managed to agree on an extension with the Troika, but we are still left guessing for now.

• The new RBNZ governor has started his tenure by leaving rates on hold at 2.5%, catching some off guard, the front bill futures are trading 8pts lower at 44.

Market Update - 24 October 2012

• Stock market got hit as the earnings season continue to disappoint the market. Markets were basically washed out last night with risk off as US Equities market took a hit, the Dow is down 1.82% to 13,102.53 while the S&P is down 1.44% to 1,411.13.

• USDMYR as expected with the risk off opened higher at 3.0600 and we expect some volatility today as we are expecting the Australia CPI numbers as well as the important China PMI Flash.

• Treasuries rose as concern the U.S economic recovery is faltering drove record demand from a group of investors that includes pension funds and insurance companies at the government’s auction of $35 billion of two-year notes.

• Spain’s 10-year yield rose 13 basis points, or 0.13 percentage point, to 5.62 percent at 5 p.m. in London after gaining as much as 15 basis points, the most since Oct. 15.

• Crude fell 2.4% to 86.52 and through important support and Gold fell 1% to 1707 and copper fell 1.4%. Gold is again behaving more like a risky asset than a sage heaven as the allure of it being a hedge for downside and inflation continues to diminish.

• G-7 currencies were weaker across the board. BoC caught the market off guard with a hawkish tone - especially given Flaherty's comments last week.

• Euro and GBP both heavily hit with BOE's King leaving the door open to further QE. USDCAD gapped lower from .9970 to .9915 following the BoC comments that higher rates will become appropriate.
• Later today all eye on the Aus CPI numbers. Q3 CPI is expected at 1.0% versus a prior reading of .5%, as well as China flash PMI, should be a day with some volatility.

Malaysia Palm Oil SGS Data 1-20 October 2012

SGS (1-20 Oct) = 1050548 v 900450(up 16.67%)

Market Update - 19 October 2012

• Markets consolidated over night after Microsoft (-0.17%) and Google (-8%) both reported badly weighing on technology stocks and holding the S&P down by -0.24% and the DOW (-0.06%) was hurt again by IBM.

• The Eurostoxx rose slightly but it was quiet going out there as European leaders made their usual noises without saying much at all, talks continue tonight and don’t rule out more headlines this morning.

• USDMYR, interesting one, its nearing 3.0500 again, if it closes back above 3.0500 we might see it go back to the persistant 3.0500-3.0900 trading range again, London open and equity markets should take the lead for the pair, but expect short USDMYR to take profit or square off ahead of the weekend.

• Spain’s stock market pulled back 0.34% but peripheral spreads continue to narrow, Greece 10yr fell 41bps and Spain’s 13bps.

• After a week of reports we have analysts now expecting a fall of 1.5% from a year ago on earnings vs a 3% fall before we began, looking up.

• More good data in the US from the Philly Fed showing the manufacturing index at its highest level since April, led by a gain in inventories.

• Just to touch a little on the US Presidential elections, the 2^nd round of debate Obama vs. Romney, Obama made amends and came out firing and put Romney on the backseat. Romney also didn’t do his campaign much favour by making a so called sexist comment on female employment. Obama took a slight edge back in the election again……I’m sticking to my call, Obama to take this one.

• We mentioned the big fall in initial unemployment claims last week but this week it reversed all the gains, rising back to the higher end of this year’s range at 388k.

• A successful Spanish bond auction helped things in Europe while a man reportedly died amid anti austerity protests in Greece.

Malaysia Palm Oil ITS Data 1-20 October 2012

ITS (1-20 Oct) = 1058844 v 928110(up 14.09%)

Increasing Your Sex Drive With Natural Foods

By Piper Li 

 

Certain foods may help boost your libido.

Few things in life remain constant. This includes your sex drive. Many men and women experience periods of low interest in sex, also known as low libido. A number of factors, including illness, medication, hormonal changes, stress and fatigue, can all contribute to a lowered sex drive. While some cases of low libido may require professional treatment, good nutrition may also help increase the desire for sex. Certain types of food may boost your overall health and improve your libido.

Nutrition

Your endocrine glands secrete specific hormones that control much of your body's sexual function. These glands require proper nutrients to perform at their best level. Your pituitary gland and adrenal glands also contribute to your sex life and rely on your diet to provide good nutrition.

Vitamins and Minerals

Your body, including the glands that control your sex drive, rely on certain vitamins and mineral for optimum health. Vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E all play a large part in reproduction. The B-complex vitamins can help balance your hormone levels and fight stress; both are important factors in increasing your libido. Zinc and folic acid may help improve sexual desire and increase sperm count.

Improving Circulation

Nutrients that improve circulation may also help your sexual organs function properly. Niacin helps to dilate your blood vessels, improving your circulation. Certain spices, such as chili pepper, ginger, cumin, cayenne and curry, can also help improve your circulation.

Food Sources

To get the necessary nutrients, you may need to alter your diet to include healthy sources of these ingredients. Consume eggs, salmon, whole grains and asparagus to obtain B-complex vitamins. Vegetables, beans and seeds contain vitamin E, while citrus fruits and dark green vegetables provide vitamin C. Eating fish, peas and beans can increase your intake of niacin. Sunflower seeds, oysters and spinach supply your body with zinc.

Other Considerations

In addition to improving your diet and including foods that support your sexual health, you can improve your sex drive by reducing your intake of certain substances. Caffeine, alcohol and cigarette smoke may all produce a decrease in your libido. The Mayo Clinic warns that cigarette smoke can restrict your blood flow, decreasing the amount of blood to your sexual organs and reducing your arousal and orgasmic response. Too much alcohol may have a depressive affect, while caffeine can cause stress, reducing your ability to enjoy sex.

How Can I Increase My Sex Drive?

By Robin Hewitt 

 

Sex drive can be increased.

Loss of libido (sexual drive) is relatively common in women; it is estimated that between one-third and two-thirds of all women report loss of sex drive at some point in their lives, according to a study by Patricia Koch, Ph.D., associate professor of Biobehavioral Health and Women's Studies at Pennsylvania State University. Reasons for loss of libido can range from medical issues to stress to exhaustion, but the important factor to remember is that there are remedies available to increase your sex drive.

Step 1

Visit your doctor and have a full physical examination. This is important, as it can rule out medical causes for a diminished sex drive, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and coronary disease. Conditions, such as pregnancy and peri-menopause, can also cause low sex drive due to the changes in your body's hormone levels.

Step 2

Ask your doctor if any medications you are taking currently can be interfering with your libido. According to the Mayo Clinic, prescription drugs, such as blood pressure medications, antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs and antihistamines can all lower a woman's sex drive, as can some forms of birth control.

Step 3

Examine your diet, sleep and physical activity level to determine that your lifestyle isn't contributing to your low sex drive. Proper nutrition, adequate sleep and regular exercise will all contribute to increased sexual desire.

Step 4

Schedule some me time. Taking an hour or two a day to pamper yourself, read a novel or indulge in a lunch with friends will ease the stress level in your life, which can be a major cause of low sex drive.

Step 5

Talk to your partner about your concerns, and discuss things you can do as a couple to increase your sexual urges. Often instigating open conversations about sex will be invigorating in itself; a romantic evening or weekend, trying new positions and integrating oils, creams and toys into your sexual experiences will give a boost to your sex drive.

Pregnancy & Pain During Sex

By Piper Li 

 

Sexual pain during pregnancy differs from common discomforts.

Pregnancy can cause many changes in your life, including your sexual activities. You may notice that you desire sex more frequently or that you have little interest in this pastime. While your increasing level of certain hormones may make you want to sleep more, your changing body shape can cause discomfort during sex. Knowing what is normal during pregnancy, as well as understanding the difference between painful sex and sexual discomfort, can help you know what to expect and when to call your doctor.

Sex During Pregnancy

Like many expectant mothers, you may wonder how sexual activities will affect your growing baby. Some worry that sex might harm the baby or threaten the pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic assures expectant mothers that they may have sex during pregnancy as often as they like, as long as everything is going normally. However, bleeding or pain during sex can cause concern.

Discomfort

Your stretching skin, increasing girth and extra weight may cause discomfort during numerous activities, including sex. Many women experience back and hip pain during the later stages of pregnancy. Certain sexual positions may aggravate this discomfort. You can expect some discomfort during sex, but you shouldn't feel actual pain.

Causes of Pain

Pain during sex can indicate the presence of a problem. A variety of conditions may cause pain during sex. Many of these have nothing to do with your pregnancy. Medical conditions, such as contact dermatitis, vaginismus, pelvic inflammatory disease, scar tissue and ovarian cysts may cause pregnant and non-pregnant women to experience pain during sexual activities.

Relieve Discomfort

Experiment with new positions to ease back pain and discomfort during sex. Pregnancy can be a great time for you and your partner to try new things. Many couples find that lying side by side, or with the woman on top can be more comfortable than the missionary position.

Exercise Caution

Pain during sex requires a trip to your doctor, whether you are pregnant or not. Painful sex may indicate a problem with your pregnancy or a simple condition that requires medical treatment. Don't hesitate to contact your doctor if you feel pain at any time during your pregnancy, including during sexual activities. A thorough exam can uncover the reason for your pain.

Painful Intercourse During Pregnancy

By Johnna Boyd Walker 

 

Intercourse during pregnancy is safe for most women.

During pregnancy, many couples express concerns about whether intercourse is safe. According to the March of Dimes, intercourse during pregnancy is completely safe for most women. Unfortunately, the experience for many mothers-to-be is anything but pleasurable. Finding out the causes of painful intercourse during pregnancy can help resolve your discomfort.

Causes

There are many reasons why intercourse during pregnancy might be uncomfortable, one of which is the woman's changing body. Morning sickness and fatigue early on in pregnancy can sap your desire and lead to vaginal dryness. Similarly, formerly erogenous zones, such as the breasts, become hypersensitive and painful to touch. As the pregnancy progresses, your enlarged abdomen becomes too cumbersome and decreases sexual satisfaction. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that emotions also play a big part in the ability to become aroused. Fears about hurting the baby or a man's inability to separate his partner mentally from the baby can make sex unenjoyable. Increased blood flow to the vagina, which swells the walls of the vaginal canal, can create a feeling of tightness and make penetration hurt. Untreated yeast infections or sexually transmitted diseases are also another cause of painful sex during pregnancy. Lastly, pain during early pregnancy could indicate an ectopic pregnancy.

Limitations

Anytime you experience pain during intercourse, you should speak to you health care provider to diagnose and treat the underlying problem. A physician might advise you to limit or to abstain from sex altogether early in pregnancy if there is a history of miscarriage or preterm birth. Similarly, couples should not have sex if the women experiences heavy bleeding or leaking fluid. Painful intercourse with vaginal itching or burning during urination could be a sign of infection.

Effects

Unfortunately, painful intercourse during pregnancy often creates a vicious cycle of abstinence, avoidance and feelings of confusion. The mom-to-be might feel torn between wanting to satisfy her partner and yet avoid pain; her partner likely feels responsible for her discomfort. As a result, he may grow emotionally and physically distant. It is important for couples to maintain an open dialogue regarding their sexual relationship and to recognize that pregnancy is simply a stage in their lives.

Prevention/Solution

Sometimes, preventing pain during intercourse is as simple as changing positions so that the pregnant woman is not lying flat on her back. The Pregnancy website suggests couples spoon with the man in back. Likewise, the woman can be on top. However, this position promotes deep penetration, which can sometimes lead to pain itself. Some couples benefit from using a synthetic lubrication or finding alternative ways to mutually satisfy each other. In the case of an infection, the woman's physician can prescribe a vaginal suppository, antibiotic or cream to help clear up the infection and relieve uncomfortable symptoms.

Considerations

Doctors advise against anal sex during pregnancy, which aggravates hemorrhoids. More importantly, anal sex introduces harmful bacteria from the rectum to the vagina. Oral sex is OK, but a pregnant woman should not allow her partner to blow air into her vagina due to the risk of embolism. Some pregnant women worry that the contractions from orgasm can trigger labor. However, contractions felt during labor are different than labor contractions and do not change the uterus.

Painful Sex & Pregnancy

By Stephanie Mojica 

 

Sex and pain don't need to come together even during pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes and the Baby Centre. Most women can safely have sex throughout their pregnancy. Some expectant moms are likely to enjoy sex even more while pregnant, due to the increased blood flow to all areas of the body, including the pelvic region.

Causes

Vaginismus, a condition where a woman tenses her vaginal muscles due to fear of being hurt from intercourse, can cause painful sex during pregnancy, according to Net Doctor. A woman experiencing an ectopic pregnancy also may suffer pain during sex; ectopic pregnancies happen when a fetus rests in a fallopian tube and not the uterus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Such pregnancies must be medically terminated, or the woman risks losing her reproductive organs or even dying as a result. Problems with the cervix or untreated infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, can also cause painful sex during pregnancy.

Considerations

Some women can experience painful sex during pregnancy due to their lovemaking position being all wrong, according to the March of Dimes. Woman on top is a great way to enjoy sex during pregnancy while controlling the depth of penetration in an effort to avoid pain or discomfort. Also, side by side intercourse, perhaps the spooning position, can alleviate any unwanted feelings of pain or bodily pressure. Another great position to try during pregnancy is getting on your hands and knees. But keep in mind that this suggested position probably won't be too comfortable during the third trimester, when your belly is usually rather large.

Warnings

A few women can't safely have any kind of intercourse during pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. Not only can serious pain result, but also premature labor and, in some cases, even miscarriage. If your doctor has noted that you have a high-risk pregnancy, you should avoid intercourse during pregnancy and opt for alternative intimate activities, such as cuddling and sensual massage.

Time Frame

Sex is more likely to be difficult or even painful during the third trimester, according to the March of Dimes. During the first trimester, symptoms, such as morning sickness, can thwart potential sexual pleasure. Usually, pregnant women who stay sexually active enjoy intercourse the most during the second trimester.

Prevention

Foreplay and adequate lubrication is always a good idea to make sex pleasurable rather than painful, but it must be placed as priorities during pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. Open communication with your partner, especially about what doesn't feel right during this time in your life, is another key toward avoiding unwanted pain during sexual relations.

How to Increase Sex Drive Naturally

By Johnna Boyd Walker 

 

Many women experience a decreased sex drive at some point.

A stalled sex drive is not an uncommon complaint for many women. In fact, reports by the Mayo Clinic claim nearly half of all women say they've experienced a decreased interest in sex at some point. The normal aging process, fluctuating hormones, stress, an underlying medical condition, lethargy and a poor body image can all affect your sex drive and ability to perform.

Step 1

Understand how sex works. Sex is more than just intercourse and, for women, it's just as much mental as physical. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports lack of desire as the main reason for a woman's low sex drive. It takes more time to jump-start a woman's libido. Therefore, arousal might not happen until you are already engaged in sex. So, even if you think you're not in the mood, give intimacy and sex a chance.

Step 2

Take stock of any sudden changes or stressors in your life. Maybe sexual intercourse has been physically painful lately, or perhaps you're under a strict deadline at work. A decreased sex drive might be the result of marital problems or the addition of a new baby. If you already have a great deal on your plate, there's not much room for sex. However, understanding the reasons for your lack of interest in sex is the first step in fixing the problem.

Step 3

Make lifestyle changes. One effective way to improve your sex life is to lead a more healthy life in general. Dr. Judith Gerber, researcher with the University of Vermont-Burlington, says satisfaction with sex increases the more you exercise. Exercising also helps you beat stress and lose weight, which can take a toll on your sex drive. Don't forget about eating healthy. Many foods that are good for you, such as garlic, avocados, strawberries and figs, are said to be great for your sex drive. Finally, don't skimp on sleep.

Step 4

Focus on your relationship. As the excitement of a new relationship wanes, it's easy to fall into a sexual rut. To perk it up again, schedule periodic date nights. Concentrate on sexual appetizers, such as back massages and a shared bubble bath, before the main course. Also, spice up your sex life by trying scented oils and sex toys.

Step 5

Get professional help. If you've tried to increase your sex drive naturally, but it's still lagging behind where you want it to be, talk to your health care provider. She can perform a complete medical evaluation to determine if there are any physical reasons for your decreased libido. Furthermore, speaking to a sex counselor might help you and your partner get back on track.