Problem: Article: There are some cultures that do not value the use of wedding rings. Read up on other alternatives offered through various cultures. A simple online search using a term such as "Which cultures do not use wedding rings" will give you quite a few returns. In some cases in India, a bride and groom will put the emphasis on having a big wedding rather than on having ringsthen the whole town, and more, know that you are married. In these conditions, why do you need a ring? (That said, wealthier Indians do tend to make the ring part of the wedding commitment, as part of adopting Western wedding traditions.) The Amish receive a clasped hand blessing as part of their ceremony but do not wear an outward symbol of their union, especially not jewelry. Some communities do use different dresses or colors, or long beards, to symbolize married couples though. Would you be more comfortable with a chain around the neck symbolizing your love? Chains, just like rings, are also a symbol of attachment/commitment. You and your partner don't even need to wear the same "type" of jewelry, as long as the two pieces have something in common (text, style, little sign). For those who undertake a lot of manual or mechanical labor, wearing the ring around a necklace is often considered a preferred (and safer) option. What about getting a tattoo? Maybe you'll think: "I don't have tattoos, I'm not a tattoo person" but this reason makes it different. In general, you do not want tattoos because you think that your tastes will change. But don't your wish your marriage to last forever? The tattoo doesn't have to be fancy. It can be your lover's name on some discreet part of your body: around the ring finger, on your side, or why not hidden under your hair, like a secret? Be creative. Nobody has to see it. It's just for you and your lover. The infinite symbol is a popular tattoo for married people to use. Instead of a tattoo, consider a second piercing, either in the ear or somewhere else prominent. When people ask about it, you can proudly proclaim it's because you're married! Make something using your own creativity that expresses your commitment. For example, it might be a small booklet of the 10 Reasons I Love You, or a heart shaped craft item or a photo album of the two of you having good times together. Really, the sky is the limit on how to personalize this aspect and it's entirely up to you as to how to turn it into a marriage commitment token. Display it proudly in your home where people visiting will see it. If the original license is not so flash, in some countries, you can upgrade to a prettier official document than the regular signed ones for a small fee; whether or not this is needed or can be done depends on where you get married. Rings are not the marriage. Marriage is about the effort of maintaining an intimate relationship and being there for one another through thick and thin. One way you can make a commitment statement is to promise one another to reaffirm your love for each other on each anniversary of your wedding, using words, poetry, images, or some other self-created way that requires personal effort to restate what you love about your partner. You could even make this reaffirmation public by throwing a small party at home or simply having a few friends and/or family over to witness your reaffirmation. Some couples even like to renew vows as if they're having a wedding all over again, perhaps at long intervals such as each decade or on specific long-term anniversaries.
Summary: Consider what other cultures do. If you really want a physical symbol, but find rings uncomfortable, consider other forms of jewelry. Show your love with art. Give each other a special, unique love token instead of a ring. Have your wedding license or contract document framed. Reaffirm your love regularly.

Problem: Article: Answer thoroughly and honestly. Your doctor needs to have as much information as possible in order to effectively treat any existing problems, and work with you to prevent future complications. Some medical offices will have you answer questions about your medical history by filling out forms, while others may do this in person. Be prepared to discuss your sexual history. Your doctor will need to know if you are sexually active. He or she may ask about breast, abdominal, vaginal, or sexual problems, that you don't think are normal. That includes being taken advantage of sexually, or sexual abuse. Your doctor will also ask about your current and past use of contraceptives. Be able to tell the nurse or doctor the first date of your most recent period, and the age when you had your first period. They may also ask the age that your breasts began to develop. They will ask if your periods are on a regular cycle, such as every 28 days, how long they usually last, and if you have any problems, like bad cramps, while you have your period. They will ask if you have episodes of spotting, or bleeding, between your periods. They will likely ask how heavy you bleed during your periods. You can usually answer this by telling them how many pads or tampons you need to use, especially for the first 48 hours of your cycle. This may include unusual vaginal discharge, bad odor, itching in your vaginal area, unusual pain or discomfort in your abdomen or vaginal area, pain during sex, and any changes, pain, or problems with your breasts. Your doctor has the option to order STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing for you if either you or your doctor has a concern. A urine test can be done for chlamydia and/or gonorrhoea, and a blood test for HIV, herpes, and/or syphilis. There is no harm in undergoing STI testing if you have any concern at all, as there are effective treatments available if you do have an infection, and treating it sooner rather than later can help to avoid long-term complications. For instance, treating chlamydia and/or gonorrhea from the outset prevents the long-term development of PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), which is when the infection has been around for a while and can lead to other complications like fertility issues down the road or the development of chronic pelvic pain. Your health care provider can test for trichomonas, gonorrhea, and chlamydia using a urine sample. Urine or lab work will be done to confirm the pregnancy. If your pregnancy is confirmed, your appointment will include additional steps and your doctor will help to arrange for your obstetrical care all the way through delivery.
Summary:
Expect questions about your general medical history. Anticipate questions about your period. Provide information about any problems you are having. Tell the doctor if you think you are pregnant.