Men are obsessed with their beard—at least many of the ones I know. They wash, groom, style it. But recently a discussion on how hygienic are beards has taken the internet by storm. Several articles floating on the the interent post the same question—Do they harbour germs akin to those on a toilet seat? If yes, what should a person do to keep them clean? Or Is shaving them the only solution?

So Are Beards Really As Dirty As A Toilet Seat?

Recently, The Washington Post published an article highlighting that while beards do harbor microorganisms, these are generally not harmful. In fact, a study involving over 400 healthcare workers found that clean-shaven individuals might carry more pathogenic bacteria due to micro-abrasions from shaving.

However, an earlier study, published in the journal Medicine in 2022, involved 80 male healthcare workers—61 bearded and 19 clean-shaven. After analysing both groups, researchers dicovered that bearded participants had a significantly higher facial bacterial load compared to their clean-shaven counterparts. Moreover, among the bacterial isolates, 27.1% were resistant to meropenem, with 77.8% of these resistant strains found in bearded individuals. However, this difference was not statistically significant.

However, cotrasting results came from a small experiement back in 2015, when a reporter for a local news segment in Albuquerque, New Mexico, swabbed a small number of men's beards and had the samples analyzed by a microbiologist. The analysis detected the presence of "enteric bacteria," which are typically found in the human gut and can also be present in fecal matter. This triggers a huge debate online.

Later, health experts clarified that the presence of enteric bacteria on the skin or hair doesn't necessarily indicate poor hygiene or health risks. Such bacteria can be transferred through common activities, like touching one's face after handling various objects or surfaces. Moreover, the human skin naturally hosts a diverse array of microorganisms, many of which are harmless or even beneficial.

So Should You Shave Your Beard?

If you’d like to, sure — but not because of germs. As long as you regularly groom and clean your beard, as you do the hair on your head, you are not at greater risk for disease than people without beards.

Science is just beginning to learn about the many species of bacteria that live within our bodies and what purpose they serve. We do know that most bacteria isn’t bad for us—many are beneficial and, in some cases, required for good health.

Here Are Three Steps You Can Follow To Get Better Beard

1. Shampoo and condition your beard a few times a week, like you'd do the hair on your head

2. Give your berd a trim every now and then to keep it healthy and eliinate split ends

3. Develop healthier habits to support a healthier brain. Eat a healthier diet, get plenty of sleep and excercise.

ALSO READ: Selenium, Zinc And Iodine: How These Nutrients Balance Your Thyroid Naturally?

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, many studies and experts predicted that COVID-19 is here to stay. While the extent to with it would affect an individual's health may have gone down, the virus, in fact, has continued to stay, and mutated. Almost like a viral fever, every year, there is a new variant and the virus seems to make head lines all over again.

This year, COVID-10 made a come back when Singapore and Hong Kong reported a spike in its cases. As per the Ministry of Health, the spike in the cases is attributed to the new variant, which is said to be on the loose - LF.7 and NB.1.8.1. These two are descendants of the JN.1 variant.

COVID-19 Variants In 2025

As per the World Health Organization, as of May 23, 2025, the following COVID-19 variants are currently circulating and are under monitoring:

KP.3 - This is a sub lineage of the JN.1, which comes from the Omicron variant. It evolved from the JN.1 and has a very similar structure too, with only two changes in spike as compared to JN.1. It also causes gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, etc. apart from the other common COVID-19 symptoms.

KP.3.1.1 - As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), KP.3.1.1, of the Omicron family, is the predominant SARS-CoV-2 variant, which is an offshoot from within the KP.3 family.

LB.1 - It is said to be a spinoff of JN.1 with additional mutation, which sets it apart from the other strains.

XEC - As per the CDC and WHO, it is a highly transmissible coronavirus subvariant that comes from the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron strain. What makes it different is its hybrid result from a merger and rearrangement of two pre-existing COVID subvariants: Omicron sub-lineages KP.3.3, and KS.1.1.

LP.8.1 - This is also a variant of SARS-CoV-2, a descendant of the JN.1 lineage, with notable mutation in the spike protein. However, its ability to spread is not fully understood. Although, the resistance of LP.8.1 is similar to that of XEC and KP.3.1.1 across all serum groups tested. These results suggest that while LP.8.1 has lower pseudovirus infectivity than JN.1, its immune resistance is comparable to XEC and KP.3.1.1.

NB.1.8.1 - This is the new mutation causing a spike in cases in China and is part of the Omicron family. However, this means that the current vaccines and immunity from the recent infections should provide some protection against it. This is a highly contagious mutated variant, which has been detected in several US states and have prompted concerns among medical and health professionals.

As per Nebraska Medicine, this variant makes up for the 73% of cases in the US.

ALSO READ: Covid Cases Surge In Singapore: What Do We Know About The New Variant On The Loose?

Which Variant Is Active In India?

Like most of the active variants from the WHO list of variants under monitoring (VUM) comes from JN.1, the case of India is no different.

The current active variant in India is JN.1, which is a subvariant of the Omicron, which has evolved from the BA.2.86 variant, also known as Pirola. This was first identified in Luxembourg in 2023. Since then, it has spread to other parts of the world, including India.

It is more transmissible than the previous variants, the reason being, its specific mutations in its spike protein. These mutations help the variant to bind to humans easily.

As per the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (NSACOG) data, India has reported cases of LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 cases, both of which are descendants of JN.1.

The other common variants in India, apart from the JN.1, which comprises of the 53% of samples which have been tested as of now, are BA.2 with 26% cases, and other Omicron sub lineages at 20% of cases.

Starting a family is a very personal experience—one that comes with optimism, questions, and sometimes, unforeseen setbacks. If you've been the one asking, "Is it too early or too late for IVF?" or "How many attempts can we make before we give up?"—you're not the only one. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has brought new possibilities to couples fighting infertility, but timing, expectations, and psychological preparation are vital. From biological clocks to financial realities, understanding when and how to begin IVF can make all the difference.

An IVF expert helps break down all the elements involved in conceiving via In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). As assisted reproduction becomes more prominent and mainstream, it's important to consider IVF from a broader picture than the mere clinical procedure. Whether one is successful or not with IVF depends on an intricate mix of biology, preparedness, and timing—factors that are very personal and specific to each and every individual and couple.

Why Timing in IVF Matters?

Timing in IVF is not so much a matter of calendar or age—it is a question of coordinating physical health, emotional readiness, and financial capability.

Biologically, age plays a pivotal role, particularly for women. A woman is born with all the eggs she will ever possess, and as she gets older, both the number and quality of these eggs decrease. This natural decline generally becomes appreciable after age 30 and more sharply after 35. In Dr. Pavithra M, Fertility Consultant at Garbhagudi IVF Centre's opinion, "The best time for a woman to opt for IVF is between her early to mid-30s. Fertility starts decreasing gradually from age 30, and after 35, the possibilities fall sharply." Conversely, men have a more insidious decline in fertility, with sperm quality usually decreasing after 40–45 years of age. Reduced motility, sperm density, and elevated DNA fragmentation can impact IVF success when paternal age is increased. While men can theoretically sire children at older ages, older paternal age has been linked to greater conception and pregnancy complications.

IVF initiated at an earlier reproductive age offers higher chances of success per cycle, requires fewer attempts, and can be more cost-effective. “Success rates are significantly higher in younger women,” says Dr. Pavithra. “That’s why early intervention is key.”

How Many Times Can Couples Try IVF?

IVF is not a single-process affair, and the number of attempts necessary can range widely. Although there is no theoretical limit to the number of cycles an individual or couple may attempt, professionals insist on a realistic strategy.

"Usually, if the patient has failed to conceive after three to four IVF cycles, it might not be worth continuing," says Dr. Pavithra. She adds that repeated failure of cycles deserve a more in-depth examination of protocols, lifestyle influences, and possible underlying pathology.

For others, it is in the first or second try. For others, it may be six or more. But the process is physically and psychologically draining. Many insurance policies don't entirely cover fertility treatment, so couples are left with significant out-of-pocket costs. Aside from cost, the bodily and psychological price of hormone shots, egg retrieval, and successive failures is significant.

Clinically, once three to six cycles have failed, physicians usually re-evaluate everything right from the embryo quality to uterine status and even immunological variables. "Every failed cycle is also a diagnostic," Dr. Pavithra says. "We know more about the reproductive health of the couple after each attempt."

Waiting Between IVF Cycles: How Long Should You Pause?

The mind and body require time to recuperate between IVF cycles. Experts normally advise a break of one to three months between tries, depending on how the person has coped physically and emotionally.

"The waiting time between cycles is very important for emotional recuperation," says Dr. Pavithra. "It also provides time to analyze embryo growth from the previous cycle, make necessary changes to protocols, and mentally prepare for the next step."

In some situations—particularly with diminished ovarian reserve or age-related drop)—physicians might start another cycle in as brief a time as a month. This accelerated timing is often selected if waiting would result in a subsequent diminishment of egg quantity and quality. It is not typically recommended, though, to hurry into back-to-back cycles, because physical stress can compromise oocyte (egg) quality and affect results.

What if IVF Fails?

When IVF fails the first time, there is usually an emotional rollercoaster for couples. Understand that a failed cycle does not necessarily mean something is "wrong" with you—but it may indicate that further investigation is needed.

About 50–70% of implantation failure is due to chromosomal defects in the embryo. Other problems are due to poor development or inadequate lab conditions on the embryo side. On the maternal side, some causes of failure include uterine abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps, thin endometrium, or even immunological disorders.

"Sometimes" and even with" all" being "good quality eggs," "embryos," and "a healthy uterus," implantation just doesn't happen," explains Dr. Pavithra. "Those are termed idiopathic or unexplained cases." In these cases, additional testing would usually be carried out to detect any immunological reasons why" the body is rejecting the embryo, and treatment would be designed to curb overactive immune reactions.

Hormonal instability, endometriosis, blood clot disorders, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol drinking, or major weight concerns also contribute to outcomes. IVF involves considering the whole person, usually with lifestyle changes alongside medical treatments.

What Couples Should Expect?

IVF is not just a fertility treatment, it is a journey that is as much diagnostic as it is therapeutic. For several couples, IVF is the start of an understanding of their reproductive well-being. Even though pregnancy may not be achieved in the first try, the process provides insight into egg quality, sperm condition, and the body's reaction to assisted reproduction.

Couples have to enter this process educated and emotionally equipped. They need to be patient, resilient, and realistic. While science and medicine can lay out the route, the choice of when to begin, how many times to attempt, and when to stop or take a break is a highly personal decision.

Statistics reveal that the majority of successful IVF pregnancies happen during the first three to six cycles, but there can be variations depending on age, reason for infertility, and other medical factors. The process tends to be non-linear, and support in any form—whether from medical providers, therapists, or loved ones—can be the turning point.

Is There A "Perfect Timing"?

In the end, the optimal time to start IVF is not a number, but rather defined by personal health, relationship maturity, and life situation. For certain individuals, beginning in one's early 30s can be the highest likelihood of success. For others, IVF at an older age is still a viable and worthwhile option—particularly with newer developments such as egg freezing and donor assistance.

As Dr. Pavithra notes, "IVF is a journey of hope, science, and strength. It's crucial that couples don't lose hope with one or even more failed attempts. Every step brings us closer to knowing what the body needs to nourish new life."

Miley Cyrus has proven her longevity and love for her craft as a musician, known for her extensive career, spanning from her time as Disney’s Hannah Montana, to her recent achievements as a singer. Recently she shared the reason behind her signature singing style, sharing that her famous raspy voice is due to a rare voice condition called Reinke’s edema. She explained that this condition also makes singing live incredibly challenging.

People and fans had noticed the shift in Miley’s voice, which is much more apparent when you listen to her early music or interviews, and compare them to her current songs.

During an interview in Apple Music’s "The Zane Lowe Show," Cyrus described Reinke’s edema as a form of "abuse of the vocal cords" that she’s had for a long time. She admitted that her lifestyle in her early twenties, which included a lot of late nights as a performer, staying up late, drinking, and smoking after shows. She admitted that these things didn't help her condition, as her voice continued to shift. However, she emphasized that these habits didn't cause the condition, as her voice always had that unique quality.

How Did Her Voice Change Over Time?

Cyrus explained that she has a large polyp on her vocal cord, which gave her a lot of tone and the texture to her voice, saying it made her who she is today.

Despite making her voice distinctive, the condition makes performing live very difficult. She compared it to "running a marathon with ankle weights on." Even just talking by the end of the day can be exhausting, leading to a deep, tired vocal sound that her mom notices.

What is Reinke's Edema?

According to StatPearls journal, Reinke’s edema is a condition that causes the vocal cords to swell. It's also known by other names like vocal cord edema or polypoid corditis. While it's most common in people who smoke for a long time, it can also affect individuals with acid reflux or those who frequently use their voice, like singers. In some cases, the swelling can even form growths that look like small polyps on the vocal cords.

This condition is quite rare, affecting less than 1% of the population and it causes a noticable shift in a person’s vocal abilities you may notice how people who have this condition have

• Hoarseness or a raspy voice
• A deeper-sounding voice
• Trouble speaking loudly

What Causes Reinke's Edema?

The Cleveland Clinic explains that the most common reason people develop Reinke's edema is long-term smoking. The chemicals in smoke severely irritate the vocal cords. Other things that can lead to this condition include

Acid reflux (GERD/LPR), which is a condition where stomach acid can travel up to your throat and irritate your vocal cords.

Being around irritants for a long time can also be a cause as this means breathing in chemicals or other substances that can harm your throat.

Overusing or straining your voice, meaning you may be constantly speaking, singing, or shouting in ways that put too much stress on your vocal cords can also contribute.

Is There A Cure?

There are different ways to treat Reinke’s edema, including both surgery and non-surgical methods. Surgery might involve using a laser or small tools to remove the swollen tissue. Non-surgical approaches include speech therapy and addressing the root causes, such as quitting smoking or taking medication for acid reflux.

However, Miley Cyrus is currently choosing to avoid surgery. She's not willing to sever the tissue that causes this vocal fry, because of the chance that she wakes up from the surgery and doesn’t sound like herself. Despite the difficulties it presents performing, Cyrus sees the condition as an integral part of what makes her voice so unique.