Latest news with #attachment
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Couples who cuddle before sleep reap key health benefits, study reveals
Snuggling with your partner could be a win-win for your health. Cuddling at night promotes more secure attachment between partners and lowers stress levels, according to a new study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. Researchers from Auburn University examined data from 143 heterosexual "bed-sharing" couples, analyzing associations between physical closeness at sleep onset, perceived stress, attachment insecurity and sleep disturbance. Most Sleep-deprived Cities In Us Revealed In Report: Where Does Yours Rank? Factors including daytime sleepiness, income, age, relationship length, sleep diagnoses and whether children or pets sleep in the bed were also considered. The results revealed that couples who assumed a physically closer position upon going to sleep were indirectly linked with "lower couple insecure attachment" (when they have trouble connecting emotionally) and lower stress. Read On The Fox News App The researchers found no "significant" associations between physical closeness at sleep onset and the chances of sleep disturbance. While stress was found to be lower among cuddlers, the research found that cuddling did not increase sleep quality. The researchers concluded that physical closeness at sleep onset "may be a promising and amenable avenue for improving relational and physiological well-being." Here's Why 90% Of Americans Don't Sleep Through The Night, According To Expert Sleep expert Wendy Troxel, PhD — a RAND Corporation senior behavioral specialist and licensed clinical psychologist in Utah — shared with Fox News Digital how these findings highlight the "vital role" that shared time and physical touch play in emotional well-being. Troxel, author of the book "Sharing the Covers: Every Couple's Guide to Better Sleep," commented on the "interesting" finding that cuddling did not influence sleep quality. "This suggests that it's the moments spent together before falling asleep — not necessarily sharing the entire night — that have the greatest positive effect on a relationship," said the expert, who was not involved in the study. "The simple act of cuddling before sleep likely triggers powerful psychological and physiological responses, such as increased emotional security and the release of oxytocin — the 'bonding hormone' associated with intimacy." Heat Exposure Linked To Better Sleep, Experts Say — Here's Why These effects help reduce stress and deepen connection, which makes pre-sleep cuddling a "meaningful ritual for emotional health," Troxel said. "Whether you and your partner sleep together or apart, don't skip the cuddle before bed," she advised. "Even brief moments of closeness can enhance your relationship and overall well-being." While the study found that most couples sleep in the same position as their partner, 36.3% reported not touching or cuddling at night. Those who did touch reported sleeping back to back (19.6%), having some contact, like touching an arm or leg (23.1%), spooning (13.3%), intertwining (4.2%) and sleeping face to face (3.5%). Study co-author Josh R. Novak, PhD, associate professor at the Auburn University Department of Human Development and Family Science, confirmed in a statement to Fox News Digital that the more physically close position couples are in, the more feelings of "relational safety" were present due to lower stress. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter "Sleep is one of the most important ways we can manage our physical, relational and mental health," the researcher said. "Research has substantiated that sleep and relationship functioning are bidirectional and cyclical — meaning that bad sleep can negatively impact your relationship, and difficult relationship dynamics can lead to worse sleep." Novak added that non-sexual physical affection has generally been deemed "critical" for relationships, but there seems to be more "emotional and relational benefit" when there's full-body contact. "My study suggests that cuddling with a partner can be both a barometer of how a relationship is doing and a way to maintain or repair a relationship, as well as lower stress levels," he said. The researchers did not study how much time was spent in a cuddling position, leaving Novak to be "skeptical" of whether it leads to sleep disturbances. "What happens most often is that cuddling only happens for a bit until both partners fall asleep, but there could be a select few that cuddle throughout the whole night," he said. For more Health articles, visit "My hunch is that most use cuddling to induce sleepiness and the feeling of safety and to reduce stress and anxiety, and that afterward either their body temperature increases too much, or there is discomfort and the need to shift around becomes necessary." Novak encouraged couples to cuddle if stress levels are high, as it's a nonverbal way to feel "secure and safe." "Although research needs to substantiate this further, it might also imply that, in the face of conflict during the day that is not solved or repaired … cuddling might be a way to start that process and move toward repair," he article source: Couples who cuddle before sleep reap key health benefits, study reveals
Fox News
8 hours ago
- Health
- Fox News
Couples who cuddle before sleep reap these health benefits, study reveals
Snuggling with your partner could be a win-win for your health. Cuddling at night promotes more secure attachment between partners and lowers stress levels, according to a new study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. Researchers from Auburn University examined data from 143 heterosexual "bed-sharing" couples, analyzing associations between physical closeness at sleep onset, perceived stress, attachment insecurity and sleep disturbance. Factors including daytime sleepiness, income, age, relationship length, sleep diagnoses and whether children or pets sleep in the bed were also considered. The results revealed that couples who assumed a physically closer position upon going to sleep were indirectly linked with "lower couple insecure attachment" (when they have trouble connecting emotionally) and lower stress. The researchers found no "significant" associations between physical closeness at sleep onset and the chances of sleep disturbance. While stress was found to be lower among cuddlers, the research found that cuddling did not increase sleep quality. The researchers concluded that physical closeness at sleep onset "may be a promising and amenable avenue for improving relational and physiological well-being." Sleep expert Wendy Troxel, PhD — a RAND Corporation senior behavioral specialist and licensed clinical psychologist in Utah — shared with Fox News Digital how these findings highlight the "vital role" that shared time and physical touch play in emotional well-being. Troxel, author of the book "Sharing the Covers: Every Couple's Guide to Better Sleep," commented on the "interesting" finding that cuddling did not influence sleep quality. "This suggests that it's the moments spent together before falling asleep — not necessarily sharing the entire night — that have the greatest positive effect on a relationship," said the expert, who was not involved in the study. "The simple act of cuddling before sleep likely triggers powerful psychological and physiological responses, such as increased emotional security and the release of oxytocin — the 'bonding hormone' associated with intimacy." These effects help reduce stress and deepen connection, which makes pre-sleep cuddling a "meaningful ritual for emotional health," Troxel said. "Whether you and your partner sleep together or apart, don't skip the cuddle before bed," she advised. "Even brief moments of closeness can enhance your relationship and overall well-being." While the study found that most couples sleep in the same position as their partner, 36.3% reported not touching or cuddling at night. Those who did touch reported sleeping back to back (19.6%), having some contact, like touching an arm or leg (23.1%), spooning (13.3%), intertwining (4.2%) and sleeping face to face (3.5%). Study co-author Josh R. Novak, PhD, associate professor at the Auburn University Department of Human Development and Family Science, confirmed in a statement to Fox News Digital that the more physically close position couples are in, the more feelings of "relational safety" were present due to lower stress. "Sleep is one of the most important ways we can manage our physical, relational and mental health," the researcher said. "Research has substantiated that sleep and relationship functioning are bidirectional and cyclical — meaning that bad sleep can negatively impact your relationship, and difficult relationship dynamics can lead to worse sleep." "Sleep is one of the most important ways we can manage our physical, relational and mental health." Novak added that non-sexual physical affection has generally been deemed "critical" for relationships, but there seems to be more "emotional and relational benefit" when there's full-body contact. "My study suggests that cuddling with a partner can be both a barometer of how a relationship is doing and a way to maintain or repair a relationship, as well as lower stress levels," he said. The researchers did not study how much time was spent in a cuddling position, leaving Novak to be "skeptical" of whether it leads to sleep disturbances. "What happens most often is that cuddling only happens for a bit until both partners fall asleep, but there could be a select few that cuddle throughout the whole night," he said. For more Health articles, visit "My hunch is that most use cuddling to induce sleepiness and the feeling of safety and to reduce stress and anxiety, and that afterward either their body temperature increases too much, or there is discomfort and the need to shift around becomes necessary." Novak encouraged couples to cuddle if stress levels are high, as it's a nonverbal way to feel "secure and safe." "Although research needs to substantiate this further, it might also imply that, in the face of conflict during the day that is not solved or repaired … cuddling might be a way to start that process and move toward repair," he added.
NZ Herald
5 days ago
- General
- NZ Herald
BV or thrush? Know the difference
Your symptoms could mean you need a different treatment to what you thought. While many women are familiar with the dreaded itch 'down there', vaginal thrush isn't the only infection to affect our intimate area – and knowing the difference is imperative. Another common culprit is bacterial vaginosis, or 'BV': a condition caused by an imbalance between the 'good' and 'bad' bacteria that naturally occur within the vagina in women of childbearing age. Women can often mistake BV for thrush, but these are two distinct infections that should be treated differently. Here's what you need to know. What are the symptoms and how do I tell them apart? Although both vaginal thrush and BV can cause unusual discharge, it differs in appearance depending on which condition you have. Thrush can produce an odourless, thick, white discharge, while BV will typically cause a thin, greyish-white discharge. But the key distinction is that women with BV may experience a strong, 'fishy' odour, while thrush is typically odourless. BV's unpleasant odour is its most common symptom and usually sets it apart from other vaginal infections, such as thrush. It's important women understand the differences so they can be treated properly. How can I treat bacterial vaginosis? In Aotearoa New Zealand, Fleurstat BVgel is the only over-the-counter product available for the treatment and rapid relief of BV symptoms. This non-antibiotic, vaginal gel is clinically proven to help relieve symptoms such as discharge and odour, starting to work within 24 hours. It comes with an easy-to-use vaginal applicator and is available without a prescription from the pharmacy. Catherine Burns, the Marketing Manager at Aspen New Zealand, says Fleurstat is a non-antibiotic treatment that many women may prefer, as it is available from pharmacies without a prescription so it may be a convenient option. The product is designed to disrupt the attachment of BV causing bacteria to the vaginal wall, allowing the good bacteria to replenish and normalise the vagina's pH. One full applicator is applied into the vagina daily, preferably at bedtime, for seven days. It's important to complete the seven-day treatment course. Burns says that as a doctor's prescription isn't required, Fleurstat may be a more accessible option for women. 'Women experiencing embarrassing BV symptoms such as unpleasant odour or discharge can simply go to their local pharmacy, and ask if Fleurstat is right for them,' she says. 'Fleurstat provides rapid relief of BV symptoms, starting to work within 24 hours. It's an easy to use, clinically proven, treatment.' Fleurstat retails from about $45. Recurrent BV Fleurstat BV gel can be used (when you don't have symptoms) to help prevent recurrent BV and it's symptoms including abnormal vaginal odour and discharge. However, please see your doctor if you have recurrent BV. Changing certain hygiene habits can also help prevent BV. Using soapy water, perfumed products or other products to clean inside the vagina may increase the risk of getting BV so experts recommend washing the area with warm water only. And while BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), certain sexual activities such as having multiple partners or engaging in unprotected sex, may increase the risk of BV. When should I see my doctor? If you are unsure whether you have BV, suspect you have recurrent BV, another vaginal infection or if you think you may be at risk of an STI, always consult your doctor. You should also see your doctor if your BV symptoms persist after seven days or recur within two weeks of finishing treatment. Fleurstat (Astodrimer Sodium 1% w/w) is a vaginal gel used for the treatment and relief of bacterial vaginosis and prevention of recurrent bacterial vaginosis and its symptoms including abnormal vaginal odour and discharge. Always read the instructions and use strictly as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. See your doctor for prevention of recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Distributed by Aspen New Zealand C/O Pharmacy Retailing (NZ) Ltd, Auckland. Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the Aspen Group of companies. © 2025 Aspen Group of companies or its licensor. All rights reserved. VivaGel® is a registered trademark of Starpharma Pty Ltd, 4-6 Southampton Crescent, Abbotsford, VIC 3067 Australia. TAPS BG5017 MAY 2025
Times
21-05-2025
- Health
- Times
Experts be damned! Snuggling up together won't lead to better sleep
Just when you thought you were getting something right by investing in a bed the size of an ice rink, keeping an eagle eye on the room temperature, not looking at your phone in bed, not having stressy conversations about money in bed, wearing an eye mask and ear plugs (maybe) plus an anti-teeth grinding mouthguard and, most importantly of all, creating some sleep hygienic space between you and your bed partner, along come a group of scientists to tell us that we have been doing it all wrong and must start all over again. According to new research findings from the US, couples who fall asleep while cuddling may have less sleep disturbance and attachment insecurity. The couples observed in the study who were
Daily Mail
21-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
We make thousands extreme cleaning drug dens and crime scenes - and it's led to some chilling discoveries
Two mothers are making a living by cleaning blood-stained crime scenes, needle-strewn drug dens and hoarders' homes. Lauren Baker and Jasmine Layton, based in Kent, each run their own biohazard cleaning businesses in Kent and say they 'love' their jobs - but appreciate their way of earning a living isn't for everyone. Despite the many risks and unglamorous nature of their jobs - on which they've found dead cats stuffed into freezers and bathtubs full of human excrement - they say it pays the bills and there's no shortage of work. Mother-of-two Ms Baker revealed she once removed shocking amounts of items weighing nearly as much as four double-decker buses from just one hoarder's home. She explained that she found her niche after working as a domestic and commercial cleaner when she was called to a 'really grotty' house. 'I realised some people live like that and I could make a difference,' 30-year-old Ms Baker, from the Isle of Sheppey, said. Three years ago, Ms Baker decided to embark on a biohazard cleaning course in Birmingham. After completing her course, she set up her own LIT Biohazard and Trauma Cleaning business, cleaning up trauma and unattended death scenes, hoarder homes and drug dens across Kent and Essex. Discovering animals trapped in masses of nappies, bottles of urine, tampons and takeaway boxes is all in a day's work as Ms Baker sets about safely removing and disposing of biohazards including bodily fluids, needles and deadly bacteria. 'I absolutely love filth and grime,' Ms Baker says. 'Throw me in a sh***y toilet and I will have a field day.' Ms Baker recalled one occasion when she was called out to a hoarder's home and found a dead cat stuffed into the homeowner's freezer. She explained that the pet was something the owner 'could not physically let go of' because they had 'too much of an emotional attachment' to the animal. A sign on the door of LIT Biohazard and Trauma Cleaning's offices reads: 'You do the crime, we'll clean the grime.' Ms Baker's 2008 Vauxhall Zafira is decked out with her company's logo and slogans reading: 'Follow me on my socials, not in real life though - that's weird', and 'When a bodily fluid becomes a floor fluid, scan this!', with a giant QR code above. She says most people simply believe emergency service personnel clean up crime scenes after forensics teams have investigated. Instead, they hand over to specialist businesses like Ms Baker's, which can charge into the thousands to attend sites and leave them spotless. 'I cleaned a hotel room once where a couple had stayed,' she recalled. 'The bathroom was quite bad... When I walked in, it looked like a bloodbath. 'It will always stick with me because you sit there and think, 'What actually happened?'. Though crime scene clear-ups are not too frequent, as most are handled in-house by police, decomposition cleans are far more common. These jobs also present health risks from infectious diseases that may have caused the deaths of some; including HIV, hepatitis B and C and tuberculosis. To protect themselves, biohazard cleaners like Ms Baker are kitted out head-to-toe in full personal protective equipment (PPE), comprised of a hazmat suit, boots, respiratory masks and double gloves. They are also armed with industrial-strength chemicals and disinfectants, as well as traditional cleaning tools like mops and buckets. Ms Baker admits that being called to the aftermath of suicides is particularly difficult for her, as a close member of her family took their own life. 'My emotions come flooding back. I'll put myself in their family's shoes because I've been on the receiving end of it,' she said. 'I know how it feels to have the police knock at your door. But I have to take my emotions out of it because this family needs me right now and they need me to be on top form. 'So I can't be breaking down. This is not my story. This is not my place. I'm here to help this family.' Crime scene clear-ups are not too frequent, decomposition cleans are common. These jobs can present health risks from infectious diseases those who have died may have suffered from, including HIV, hepatitis B and C and tuberculosis Ms Baker added that sympathising with and relating to people whose houses she's cleaning is an important aspect of her job. 'I absolutely love my job,' she said. 'I wouldn't want to do anything else. I have definitely found what I should be doing.' Jasmine Layton, another mother-of-two from Folkestone in Kent, set up her business Crisis Cleanup in September last year. She said she had always been interested in forensics but had found it difficult to continue her studies while looking after her two children. The 28-year-old said being a biohazard cleaner felt 'similar' to being a forensic investigator, and is not without its potentially dangerous occupational hazards. One of the riskiest jobs Ms Layton takes on is cleaning drug dens and sharps from people's homes. Used needles, which present the danger of transmitting blood-borne infections and viruses, are often hidden. Ms Layton said she's had three hepatitis B jabs which gives her a 'tiny peace of mind' when cleaning hazardous locations. But she says her PPE needs to be 'on absolute point' to be fully protected. The cleaner's gloves are extra-thick to protect against needle pricks and she uses a magnetic litter-picker to grab the drug paraphernalia. Remembering one clean, Ms Layton said: 'The family didn't really have much history about the person who had passed away, but as I was moving his sofa around I could hear a jangle. 'I cut the back of the sofa and there were needles jammed down there. I've heard people have put them in fridges and booby traps in walls.' Other obscure locations where needles are found include some jammed in the seals of showers, stashed in tins of urine and stuffed under fences at the bottom of gardens. In some houses, Ms Layton has stumbled across stashes of hundreds of Barbie dolls and teddy bears. However, collections of toys are far from the grisliest discoveries she's found. 'Hoarders tend to hoard their poo and wee. If their bathroom is completely hoarded, which it will be, they sometimes take matters into their own hands and start pooing on the floor,' Ms Layton said. 'We've had a bath before absolutely full of faeces.' Ms Baker added that clean-ups of hoarders' homes can often become incredibly tense, with some shouting in her face. 'I've said to them, 'We need to dwindle these 78 glasses down to just 10'. There are only three of you that live in this house, so you don't need 78 glasses'.' Ms Baker estimates the biggest hoard she has removed from a single home was a staggering 39 tonnes: around the weight of nearly four double-decker buses. She says hoarders are sometimes incorrectly branded as 'lazy' for creating unliveable environments for themselves, and even their children. But for many, she says there is often a deeply personal reason behind their hoarding. 'If a hoarder has been a victim of domestic violence, she could be made to feel like having a period is absolutely disgusting,' Ms Baker continued. 'So they end up leaving that relationship and because it's been drummed into their heads that periods are vile and they shouldn't have any sanitary products, they start hoarding them - because they have control. 'People always put us down and say: 'You're just a cleaner'. But we're not. We take a lot of risks.' Ms Baker recalled a phone call she received a few weeks ago from a person who was 'crumbling', saying they had nothing to carry on living for. They had found her number online and saw she offered mental health crisis cleaning, so they 'took their chances' and reached out in the hope of getting support. 'They never wanted a cleaning service; they wanted support and help. After two hours on the phone, I believe I managed to change their mindset,' Ms Baker said. 'We found hope and sorted out a plan moving forward.' Both biohazard cleaners said their jobs don't only present physical challenges, but emotional ones as well. To help people improve their lives is a sentiment both cleaners share. Referring to the phone call she received a few weeks ago, Ms Baker said: 'I just know this person was sent to me for a reason. But I'm just a cleaner, right?' Now eight months into her new career, Ms Layton says she's glad she has no regrets about becoming a biohazard cleaner. 'It's brilliant. I wouldn't do anything different - I love it. The biohazard stuff isn't every day. You get people asking for your help,' she said. 'It ranges from normal to the extreme, which I like. Some jobs can be dangerous, but there will always be this kind of work.'
