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13 Things Every Woman Doesn't Know About Her Own BodyThese little-known facts will surprise and intrigue you. (And only one of them has to do with your you-know-what.)
By Corrie Pikul
Photo: Thinkstock
Vaginas and sharks have something in common (no, it's not teeth).Natural vaginal lubricant is composed of sweat, sebum, cervical mucus, exfoliated cells, urea, acetic and lactic acids, complex alcohols, ketones and (here's the kicker) squalene. Ever heard of it? This organic compound isn't exclusive to humans—it's also found in the liver of sharks. And now for something you didn't know about sharks' bodies: Squalene derived from shark liver oil is sometimes added to moisturizers and skin creams, where it acts as an emollient. What’s more, recent studies cited by the American Cancer Society have found that in the lab, shark-derived squalene seemed to protect normal human cells from the detrimental effects of chemotherapy drugs without inhibiting the drugs' effect on cancer cells. Related ResourcesKeep Reading
On the Front Lines of Global Women's HealthMeet five women from around the world who share a passion to improve women's health, and learn how international health organization PSI helps.
The Genius of WeightsResistance training may be the single most effective way to lose fat and look great in a swimsuit. Adam Campbell, author of The Women's Health Big Book of Exercises, gives 20 reasons you should lift weights.
6 Women's Health Myths You Can Stop Believing Right NowIt's okay...we thought these were true, too (especially #4).
Women's Health Roundup—May 2010How is a cheeseburger like heroin? Find out how the latest developments in medical science will change your life.
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