Medicine. Technology. Web.

Top 25 Web Apps to Help You Through Your Pregnancy

Linda — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 23:39:53 +0000

While you can find plenty of pregnancy apps for mobile phones, why go through the expense of purchasing a phone and special apps when you can use online pregnancy tools for free? The following top 25 Web apps can help you through your pregnancy, from conception to delivery. Some apps are downloads, some you can use online to keep records on your health, fitness and pregnancy, and others are included in entire Web sites, which focus on your health or your pregnancy.

Calculators, Timers and Tests

Contraction Master: Scroll down to the pink box to use the online free timer. You can print out results, which is convenient if you want to time your trip to the hospital or if you are planning an at-home delivery.
Contractions Timer: This is a free web application written in javascript that can help you and your birth partner keep track of contractions. Once again, you need to have access to an Internet connection to use this tool
Live Pregnancy Test: This online tool can provide you with a probability of whether or not you are pregnant, based upon your last period, type of birth control and more. Other tools include calculators for due dates and ovulation as well as pregnancy tips.
Pregnancy Due Date: MedHelp’s free Pregnancy Calendar helps women keep track of everything from baby kicks to pregnancy weight gain. Due dates are based upon Naegele’s rule, which is named after Franz Karl Naegele (1778–1851), the German obstetrician who devised the formula.
Pregnancy Calculator: This tool estimates your baby’s due date, ovulation date, end of trimesters and number of weeks along you are on a specified date. This pregnancy calculator only provides estimates of the various dates. The due date normally varies by a couple of weeks and the ovulation date depends on the regularity of your menstrual cycle.
Pregnancy Ticker: The pregnancy ticker is designed to count your elapsed weeks and days of pregnancy. It will also display the number of days left to your due date or estimated delivery date. This ticker includes many designs that you can use to make it more personal and uniquely yours for your entire pregnancy.
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator: An average, healthy woman usually gain between 25 to 35 pounds during her pregnancy. Monitor your weight during pregnancy to stay within healthy limits. Insert your weight before pregnancy and the week of your pregnancy to determine a safe level of weight gain.
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator Chart: If the tool listed above isn’t enough for you, then use this chart so you can look ahead week-by-week for your entire pregnancy. Enter pre-pregnancy weight, height, expecting twin, or teen mother. It will calculate your weight-gain on weekly basis.
Weekly Pregnancy Calculator: How many weeks pregnant are you? Enter the date of the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) and PregnancyToday can calculate a week-by-week timeline for you with this java-enabled tool. Most healthcare practitioners calculate the age of your pregnancy by the number of weeks since your last period (menstrual age). If you want to know the gestational age of your fetus, simply enter the date of conception (or, as an estimate, 14 days before your period was due).

Calendars and Charts

3D Pregnancy App: Track your pregnancy week by week using this pregnancy calendar. Take a look at how your baby develops over time with 3D images.
Charting Your Way to Conception: Enjoy this free interactive ovulation chart, where you can pinpoint your fertile days., with a comprehensive chart analysis and an advanced ovulation detector. You also receive a fully-featured ovulation calendar with your cycles “at a glance.” Take their free online course, too.
Chinese Pregnancy Calendar 1.0: Download this calendar from cNet to determine your baby’s gender based upon date of birth and date of conception. The logic of this calendar helps you to plan your pregnancy based on your preference to have a boy or a girl. This is a lunisolar calendar which is based on the rotational properties of both the Sun as well as the Moon.
Fertility Chart: The Bump offers a chart that can help you track ovulation, basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and everything else fertility on this handy cycle-length chart.
Immunization and Pregnancy Chart [PDF]: Use this chart to stay healthy and on target with immunizations for mom and baby, provided by the Centers for Disease Control.
Over-the-counter medications during pregnancy: This chart lists over-the-counter medicines considered “low risk” for pregnant women when taken for the occasional mild illness. It also mentions a few that are not safe.
Pregnancy Calendar: Use this free tool to create a calendar and print it out to use during your pregnancy. Just Mommies also has other tools and articles on their site for you to enjoy.
Week by Week Pregnancy Calendar: This app can help you chart your pregnancy from day one to delivery.

Fitness Tools

Blood Pressure Trackers: The American Heart Association offers online blood pressure trackers to help determine if your blood pressure is staying on an even keel.
BodyDæmon: Use this site’s online fitness journal to track your fitness during pregnancy. You get goals, food portions, reports and coaching.
Fit Pregnancy: This site offers tools, Web apps, suggestions, articles, diets and fashion sense for pregnant women — including all the news about celebrity pregnancies.
Fitness Tools: This site is filled with Web apps that can keep you healthy before, during and after your pregnancy.
Graffed: Keep track of how your body is changing during and after pregnancy with this free Web tool. Graffed lets you measure your chest, waist, hips, weight and BMI, giving you a real picture of your transformation by modeling it on a human figure. Graffed lets you track your body measurements on a body shape for free.
Health & Pregnancy: WebMD offers a complete checklist of things to do, tools, diets and more for a healthy baby and a fit mom.
iStats: Use the tools on this site to review your workouts, track your progress toward meeting your goals, and enter in reps, weight, time and more.
SparkPeople: You may not want to lose weight while pregnant, but this site contains great tools to make sure you are eating right and in the correct portions.

33 Interesting Pregnancies You Can Follow on Twitter

Miranda — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 21:53:16 +0000

Many women enjoy sharing the stories related to pregnancy. And, for those who are pregnant for the first time (or even for the third time) reading about others’ experiences can be helpful and interesting. No matter your career situation, the support that you can receive from other women is priceless. You don’t have to be a health care professional to share your thoughts on pregnancy, or to help others. And you can learn a great deal from the everyday experiences of other pregnant women. If you are interested, here are 33 pregnancies that you can follow on Twitter.

“Normal” Pregnancy

What is normal, anyway? If you are interested in the regular ups and downs associated with many pregnancies, you can follow these interesting insights.

@Melquida: This sassy Twitterer shares insights into her life, as well as sharing thoughts about her pregnancy — including the way people react to pregnant women.
@AmyP: Get updates on Amy’s baby’s development in the womb. Also, fun updates on her cravings and other quirks associated with pregnancy.
@JoyfulAbode: This mother is at the tail end of her pregnancy and promising a #twitterbirth. Learn more about pregnancy, and follow her journey. Also, get minute by minute updates from the delivery room when the big day arrives!
@TiaColleen: Updates on pregnancy and more. Learn the ins and outs of pregnancy, and be involved in what’s happening.
@Nancy_Horn: Learn more about being pregnant when you already have kids. Great insight into pregnancy and life.
@mommieswstyle: Editor of Mommies with Style shares her pregnancy news, stories and more. A cool place to learn about pregnancy.
@PaperCakes: Follow this pregnancy, and keep updated and what is happening as part of #babywatch2010.
@stantosterone: Great insight from a man’s point of view. Enjoy the pregnancy journey from the other side. Fun observations and more.
@nemuri_hime: Fun updates and excitement from this stylish and excited mom to be. Great insight from Japan.
@jennyitup: Daily updates on pregnancy from this fun mom to be. Includes information on being pregnant while you already have children.

Difficult Pregnancies

If you are interested in learning more about life with difficulty getting pregnant, including the need for IVF, these twitterers can help you learn more about the ins and outs of getting pregnant, and you can follow their pregnancies.

@alittlepregnant: Learn more in vitro fertilization, and the challenges of fertility. Interesting tidbits on getting pregnant, being pregnant, and raising children.
@stirrupqueen: A look at the challenges of fertility and getting pregnant, as well as being pregnant.
@hanwayink: After a difficult time with IVF, this Twitterer is pregnant. Follow her pregnancy as it develops through her due date in February 2011.
@CorkeeTTC: Follow this Twitterer as she goes through IVF and gets pregnant. An interesting look at the journey to pregnancy when it’s difficult to conceive.
@braving_ivf: This is the courageous story of someone going through IVF. After getting pregnant, lost the baby. A good look at pregnant life, especially when it is difficult to remain pregnant.
@wombwarrior: More insights on IVF and miscarriage. An interesting look at this difficult aspect of pregnancy from someone who has been through a miscarriage and continues to move forward.
@chasingamiracle: Learn more about IVF pregnancy, and efforts to remain pregnant throughout. A look at the difficulties associated with pregnancy, and a great way to follow the journey.
@fertilitychick: An interesting look at pregnancy from someone whose partner has male fertility issues. A great look at the challenges of getting pregnant.
IVFQueen: Learn more about being pregnant through in vitro fertlization, and learn more about how it works out. Includes insights on failed attempts and difficult pregnancy experiences.
@TTC_Queen: Attempts at conception, as well as a look at the journey of IVF. Great insights and interesting information on adoption in addition to pregnancy.

High Risk Pregnancies

There are a number of factors that make a high risk pregnancy. From concerns about toxemia, to diabetes to twins and other multiples pregnancies, you can learn more about these types of pregnancies.

@idoiagkikas: Learn more about twin pregnancy, and get insights into what it’s like to be pregnant with twins.
@The Twinners: Learn more about being pregnant with multiples, and what it takes to raise twins. Plus includes great giveaways.
@Jennandtonica: Multiple pregnancy. Follow and get some sassy insight and unconventional ideas about pregnancy.
@speedglenn: Follow this interesting Twitterer about pregnancy and getting through it. You will need to request access, though.
@Lyrehca: Great information on being pregnant with pre-existing diabetes, from someone who knows what it’s like.
@achronicdose: Learn more about high risk pregnancy, especially diabetes. Also focuses on gluten free pregnancy, since this Twitterer has this challenge as well.
@aemmeleia: Learn more about high risk pregnancy, and follow the pregnancy of this Twitterer who is on bed rest.
@chamberlynmarks: Learn about being on bed rest and some of the challenges that come with pregnancy. Great updates from this pregnant woman on bed rest.

Celebrity Pregnancies

If you are interested in learning more about celebrities and their pregnancies, you can follow some of their Twitter feeds. Learn more about pregnancy rumors, and get good information from the source.

@1capplegate: Christina Applegate is pregnant, and you can follow her updates on Twitter. She doesn’t just mention her pregnancy, of course, but it is in there.
@aliciakeys: Alicia Keys recently announced that she is pregnant, and will be marrying Swizz Beatz. You can follow her updates on this Twitter verified account, and learn more about life for Alicia Keys.
@DKroesPrivate: The Victoria’s Secret model is pregnant, and you can learn more about her and her life. However, you have to get permission to read her tweets. She doesn’t let just anyone read about what’s going on.
@KloeKardashian: This socialite and reality star is pregnant. While she hasn’t been tweeting much about it, since none of the Kardashians are too shy about sharing their personal lives, there is a good chance you could see something soon.
@richsommer: The Mad Men actor’s wife is pregnant. Get his insights on life, and learn more about his insights into parenting and pregnancy. A great read.

25 Google Chrome Extensions Every Parent Needs

Linda — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 22:37:54 +0000

Google Chrome is beloved by many users, but it failed to live up to Firefox’s reputation because of a lack of extensions for the Chrome Browser. Now, however, Google Chrome has enough extensions to rival Firefox, and some duplicate and are even better than the ones designed for Firefox. But, what about extensions for parents and kids? We’ve snagged 25 Google Chrome extensions that parents can use for browsing safety, for fun and for learning, all listed below.

Each link leads to the download page, either at Google Chrome or at the developers’ sites. You may discover a few extensions that will add to your browsing safety and pleasure as well, especially when you can find tools that help you to avoid risky sites and to watch international television. For more extensions, visit the Google Chrome Extensions Web site.

Parental Extensions

Adblock Lite is a fast, easy way to block ads while browsing. It is the only extension that does not need to be configured before surfing, and it hides advertisements before they appear on the page. Needs daily updates, however.
BitDefender QuickScan takes full advantage of the “in-the-cloud” scanning service and is capable to detect active malware in less than a minute, taking just a fraction of the system resources needed by a regular virus scan.
CEOP’s internet safety advice is a tool produced by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre. Download their extension and keep CEOP specialists at your fingertip whenever and wherever you use the internet.
Click&Clean deletes browsing history, typed URLs, Flash cookies, all traces of your online activity to protect your privacy.
F Off! is a profanity filter for Google Chrome that cleans your Internet of swearing. It’s a great app for people who would like the power to choose what sort of language they consume on the Web, or for those who would like to make the web a cleaner place for their kids.
FlashBlock allows you to block all Flash features or to be selective with the embedded whitelist manager. Each Flash element is replaced with a placeholder that allows you to load only selected elements on a given page.
Ghostery allows you to protect your privacy by detecting trackers, Web bugs, pixels and beacons placed on Web pages by ad networks, behavioral data providers, web publishers, and other companies interested in your activity or your child’s activity.
LinkExtend provides a toolbar that allows parents to set safety browsing, to install a KidSafe alert and erase tool, page ranks and more. Great for parents as well as for kids.
PasswordFail Extension warns the user if the Web site being used stores passwords in plain text, a practice which is unnecessary and dangerous.
SiteAdvisor for Chrome is based upon McAfee SiteAdvisor and warns you about page ratings before you open the site.
WOT, or Web of Trust, is a safe browsing tool, which warns you about risky sites that cheat customers, deliver malware or send spam. Traffic-light rating symbols show which Web sites you can trust for safe surfing, shopping and searching on the Web.

Fun Extensions for Kids

Chrome TV is a free plug-in that enables users to watch online TV direct from the Chrome browser. With more than 3,000 TV channels from all over the world, this is best way to easily watch TV on your computer.
Cooliris transforms your browser into a full-screen 3D Wall for searching, viewing and sharing the Web. The Cooliris extension includes a plugin that requires access to your graphics card in order to render the high-performance 3D Wall. Cooliris also helps parents seem cool.
Flixster Movies extension lets you find out about new movies and watch trailers directly from your toolbar.
Justin.tv Channel Browser shows what is on Justin.tv without going to the site. Find live videos and search to find a live channel to watch streaming videos.
Kidstube Button allows Internet users to open KidsTube with a click of a button, and avoids any unnecessary browsing. KidsTube has a wide variety of age-appropriate videos.
One Manga Reader helps users to follow the updates of favorite mangas and beautify the One Manga Web site. Mangas are sorted in alphabetical order in the list. Mangas with new updates appear on top of the list.
TV Chrome is the TV Extension for Google Chrome that allows users to watch 2780 live television channels sorted by country and category directly from the Chrome Browser.

Learning Extensions

Basic Calculator is a simple and easy-to-use calculator that allows users to choose a favorite style and icons.
Chrome Dictionary Lite lets you translate words on any current page. Click the magnifier icon to turn on on particular page, then move your mouse to hover words to translate.
Diigo Web Highlighter and Bookmark highlights Web pages with multiple colors as you read online. Also allow tagging and sticky notes.
Fast Typer is a game and a learning tool as users see how many six-letter words they can type within one minute.
Google Dictionary helps define words with a double click. Once you double click on a work, a small pop-up bubble shows the complete definition of that word.
StayFocusd increases productivity by limiting the amount of time per day that users spend browsing time-wasting Web sites. Once your allotted time for the day has been used up, the sites you have blocked will be inaccessible for the rest of the day. Good way to teach kids how to stay focused and to restrict time spent on certain sites.
Wikipedia Companion — Mini Wiki Browser is a full-featured mini-browser and lookup for Wikipedia and is an essential tool for any Wikipedia user. It saves your recent wiki lookups, is multi-lingual and moves back and forward and more.

VIDEO: How to Become an Ultrasound Technician

Emily — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:45:45 +0000

Here’s a video we produced a few weeks ago that explains all about ultrasound technician careers, salaries, and schools…

4D Ultrasound vs. 3D Ultrasound Pictures: What’s the Difference?

Miranda — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 23:06:52 +0000

One of the more interesting times in pregnancy is the ultrasound. This technique makes use of sound to construct images of what is going on inside a mother’s uterus. Fetal pictures are produced when the ultrasound waves enter the uterus, and are then reflected back. By noting the patterns reflected back, it is possible to produce an image that shows what is happening inside the mother’s womb. In many cases, the images produced with the help of an ultrasound technician are used to assess the growth and health of the unborn child. The fetus can be observed, and health care professionals can look for abnormalities. In some cases problems caught early enough can be corrected with in utero surgery, allowing for some problems to be fixed before they can cause problems later.

For years, two-dimensional ultrasound images were the norm, showing black and white images. Now, though, technology has advanced to a point where 3D and 4D ultrasounds can be produced, instead of just relying on 2D ultrasounds. The technology is still relatively young, though, and 4D and 3D ultrasounds are often considered elective, meaning that few health insurance companies will pay for them, although some are willing in cases of high risk pregnancy.

There are differences between 3D and 4D ultrasounds. As you might imagine, a 4D ultrasound is more technologically advanced. There are differences in the way the two techniques are used medically, as well as for documentation purposes by expectant parents.

3D Ultrasound

A 2D ultrasound appears flat, and in black and white. It looks very like a standard photograph of what is going on with the fetus inside the mother’s body. A 3D image, though, adds another layer that makes it appear life like. The images include depth and additional color, offering access to a more lifelike appearance.

3D ultrasound images are made when the sound waves used to help construct the images are sent at different angles. With 2D ultrasound scanning, the sound waves are often reflected back in one direction. The 3D image is created by taking the results of the ultrasound scanning from different angles and compiling them, with the help of special computer software, to create an image that is more life like, and that includes depth.

These types of images offer a greater chance for identification of surface problems. For instance, the greater detail and depth offered by a 3D ultrasound can help identify some physical problems, such as a cleft lip, sooner and with more accuracy. A 3D image can often cost between $125 and $150 per session, depending on where you are.

4D Ultrasound

Even more advanced than a 3D ultrasound is the 4D ultrasound. The biggest difference is that a 4D ultrasound adds the element of movement. The sound waves are used to capture the movement and positioning happening inside the uterus. As a result, a 4D ultrasound appears as a video in many cases.

For the most part, while it can sometimes be possible to convince an insurance company to pay for a 3D ultrasound in cases of high risk pregnancy, or health worries, it is difficult to justify the use of 4D ultrasound images medically. However, they do offer enhanced diagnostic ability. A 4D ultrasound can help show some internal issues, such as with the heart and vascular system, or with the skeletal system, since they do include movement.

Many parents like to have the ultrasound videos, since they are interesting and can show the life moving inside them. However, these can get quite pricey, costing anywhere between $165 and $225 (or more) per session. There are companies that specialize in 4D ultrasounds, and will set the ultrasound to music, at your request.

Other Uses for 4D and 3D Ultrasound Pictures

While we think of ultrasounds as something that is primarily used for pregnancy, the truth is that ultrasounds can be used for other purposes as well. In mammograms, ultrasound images can be used to help measure breast tissue. On top of this, some operating rooms feature 4D ultrasound equipment that can help surgeons perform their duties more effectively. The live action feature, showing movement, can be a good guide for those who want to know what is happening inside the body. 3D and 4D ultrasound can also be used to determine the effectiveness of regional anesthesia, and can be very helpful during out patient procedures that involve peripheral nerve blocks for different types of out patient surgery.

Risks of 4D and 3D Ultrasounds

It is important to note that 3D ultrasounds used for medical purposes have the same waves and intensity as those used in 2D ultrasounds. There is speculation that risk to fetal development from exposure to the ultrasound waves might be possible, but these are generally low, especially when used in medical settings.

Some equipment used to make 4D and higher quality 3D ultrasound pictures might actually use higher intensity ultrasound waves. While many agree that these energy waves are unlikely to cause damage, recommendations are that exposure to these energy waves by the developing baby be limited. Both the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and the Food and Drug Administration have issued opinions that non-medical use of ultrasounds for records, or for entertainment, are a misuse of medical equipment. With the lack of reliable data regarding the safety of these devices, many prefer to be safe. However, there are still many centers that specialize in offering these products to excited parents.

Bottom line: Ultrasounds can be very useful in a number of ways. They allow a view of the baby, which can provide information about the gender, as well as help health care providers identify possible problems. Additionally, ultrasound can help in non-pregnancy medical diagnostics. Advanced techniques of 3D and 4D ultrasound can provide better, more realistic pictures that can help health care providers get a clearer picture of possible problems, during pregnancy, surgery or in other situations.

Whether you choose to get a 3D or 4D ultrasound depends on your assessment of the risk, and whether you are willing to pay out of pocket for the images.

17 Educational Infographics to Learn About Reproductive Health

Miranda — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 22:49:59 +0000

Reproductive health is something of a taboo in American society. People in the U.S. don’t really want to have discussions about reproductive health and sexual well-being. However, ignoring the issue of reproductive health isn’t going away. As ultrasound technicians, doctors, nurses and midwives can tell you, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about reproduction and sexual health. So, while reproductive health may not be something you talk about over the water cooler at work, it is something that you should be educated about. Here are 17 infographics that can help you learn a little more about reproductive health:

Reproduction, Pregnancy and Sexuality Trends

One of the biggest issues out there is teen pregnancy. Another issue is abortion. Additionally, there is a lot of interest in teachings about premarital sex. While these abortion isn’t always related to teen pregnancy and pre-marital sex, it is still an interesting statistic.

Teen Pregnancy in America: This infographic from Medicine. Technology. Web. features a look at teen pregnancy in America, and correlates it to abstinence-only funding, providing an interesting look at the idea that maybe abstinence-only education is not the best route to take when trying to prevent teen pregnancy. Many of the states that accepted abstinence-only funding saw teen pregnancy rates higher than the national average. Of course, the infographic may not take into account changes since then, as the programs have progressed, and it doesn’t take into account recent arguments that abstinence-only education may be working.
Religious Attitudes and Sex: This relatively simple infographic looks at religious teaches on sex, including teen sex, pre-marital sex, abortion and birth control. It also looks at religious attitudes toward homosexual orientation. You can see a quick comparison of how different religious traditions view different aspects of reproduction and sexual identity and practices. It is interesting to compare the different attitudes, and it can provide you with a look at some of the reproductive traditions held by a large portion of the world. This infographic is found on Flickr, and uses information from ReligiousTolerance.org in its creation.
Abortion State-by-State: If you are interested in the rate of abortion, you can take a look at this infographic, from CatholicVoteAction.org, to get an idea of which states see more abortions, with relation to the national average. It divides these states into “red” and “blue”, dividing states according to political leanings (liberal or conservative, based on who won the states in in 2008. However, it is important to note that the states used to create the infographic actually come from 2006, before the last presidential election, so it may not exactly match up with attitudes. But it should be fairly close.
Homosexuality: How has homosexuality evolved? You can find out more about gay behavior, and where it might have come from, with help from this io9 infographic, based on information about evolutionary sexuality from New Scientist. Learn about how different sexual traits might have developed, and the purpose for some of them. You can also compare the development of homosexuality in other species to homosexuality in humans. Apparently, in some cases, a tendency toward gayness develops for very specific reasons. In other cases, reasons are a little less pronounced. A very interesting infographic for those who are interested in how our sexual preferences might have evolved.
Timeline of Abstinence-Only Education: Want to know how much has been spent on abstinence-only education in the U.S.? Here is an interesting infographic from Blogging Censorship that offers information on how federal funds have been used with regard to sex ed and abstinence-only education since 1981. Depending on where you stand, this is either good news or bad news.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and Pornography

Learn a little bit more about STDs, and what you can expect from them, as well as facts about their spread. Also included are infographics on pornography.

STDs in America: Learn some basic stats about STDs in America. This includes information about STDs, as well as information on HIV/AIDS. Some of the information addresses STDs in high school, as well as STDs in the general population. This even includes “fun facts” about sexually transmitted diseases amongst porn stars and ways that you can contract sexually transmitted diseases. It’s a sometimes surprising look at STDs and their prevalence, and where you are likely to encounter them. Plus, this infographic will give you something to think about before you have unprotected sex.
HIV: Want to know which countries are making progress in combating AIDS? This World AIDS Day infographic on GOOD offers a look at how different countries are doing, showing which have reduced their HIV positive populations the most — and which are seeing a big increase. Estimates put the total number of people with HIV at 33 million right now, assuming reporting is accurate. You can learn more about HIV/AIDS and get a better idea of where we are at — and how much further we have to go in order to get the HIV/AIDS epidemic under control as a concerned global community.
Porn and the Economy: Learn about how things are going in the pornography industry, and what the industry expects going forward. Even though porn is huge, this infographic published on PotPotato looks the implications of an industry that is being upstaged by free content on the Web and other issues (like high paid porn stars). Can porn survive all the free content that is now available? And what is porn’s impact on the overall economy, anyway? You can learn by looking at this infographic, as well as see where the U.S. ranks in pornography use as compared to other countries in the world.
Porn by Numbers: This surprising infographic from Gunaxin Media offers a look at pornography trends in the U.S. From learning that “porn” and “sex” account for two of the top five searches for kids under the age of 18, to getting an idea of how much different countries spend on porn, to learning that Utah has the highest per capita consumption of porn, you can find out a number of interesting facts about how we use pornography as a society, in the United States of America and around the world.

Genetics and Reproductive Development

Find out more about genes, reproduction and cloning from the following infographics.

Cloning: Concerned about cloning? Many people are, with the word conjuring images of soul-less masses. This handy infographic can help you learn to distinguish between research cloning and reproductive cloning. So, while cloning is used in research, and for some procedures, actually using reproductive cloning on a widespread basis with humans is still a very long way into the future. However, research and therapeutic cloning could hold some keys to the curing of diseases.
Breasts: This fascinating developmental infographic illustrates 15 things you should know about breasts. This great infographic offers insight into interesting facts, such as the average breast weighs 1.1 pounds, and that the average breast size has increased over the last 15 years. You can also learn other facts — such as that nearly 18,000 breast reductions were performed on men in 2008. So breasts aren’t only about women. It kind of makes you want to take a second look at these important parts of the reproductive cycle, and learn a little bit more about how they do what they do.
Menstrual Cycle: Human reproduction has a tough time of it without the menstrual cycle. If you are interested in learning how the menstrual cycle works, and what happens inside the body during this time, you can learn from this colorful and interesting cartoonish infographic on imgur. An interesting journey through the female reproductive system, this infographic highlights the changes in the body during the menstrual cycle, as well as what makes the whole thing work, as well as some helpful hints about how and why some women feel and act certain ways during the month.
Semen: Learn about male reproductive health with this infographic from Spurs Fan Says. Learn interesting facts about semen — how it is produced, how fast it moves, and how much volume it takes up. Also included: How long sperm can live inside a woman or on a toilet seat. You can also compare human sperm ejaculation to that of other animals. Learn how different foods you eat can affect semen, and some interesting beliefs about becoming a man in different cultures.

Population Growth

Get information on population and reproductive trends for different cultural, religious and racial groups.

Muslim Populations Worldwide: This interesting infographic from PBS.org addresses the population trends related to Islam. It looks at population growth amongst Muslims in different areas around the world, including in Europe and North America. It also projects the possible growth out to 2025. One of the most interesting figures is the growth of the Muslim population in France, which is seeing a large increase as the immigrant population has more babies, white French citizens reproduce at a slower rate.
U.S. Population Growth through 2050: The U.S. Census Bureau offers an interesting infographic showing population growth projections through 2050 by race. While whites will still be the majority in the U.S. by then, it is clear that the trend is toward an increase in current minority populations, probably due to the higher rates of reproduction in other populations, since whites are having babies at slower rates. Charlie Gibson generated controversy a couple of years ago by calling whites to action to make more babies in an effort to keep other races from catching up to, and eventually overcoming, the white population.
Population and Inhabitable Land: One of the issues that comes up when we talk about reproductive health and population is the idea that Earth is overpopulated. However, this might not be entirely the case — at least in some places. Human.org.au offers an interesting infographic that illustrates how “full” different countries are with regard to the livable land available. Perhaps we’re not quite on the verge of running out of roon. Turns out (if you believe the infographic) that there is still plenty of room to grow in the U.S. and Britain, but, according to this infographic South Korea is definitely full.
Infant Mortality: This interesting infographic from Gapminder shows that infant mortality rises in poorer countries. It shows the population of different countries as well. Interestingly, the U.S. has one of the highest infant mortality rates of developed countries. Some point to premature births as one of the main reasons the U.S. has such a high infant mortality rate for its wealth. Some even claim that the high number of premature births indicates that the U.S. is not where it should be in terms of reproductive health and prenatal care.

Everything You Need to Know About the Male Birth Control Pill

Linda — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:03:24 +0000

Depending upon funding, it appears that new methods for birth control are on the horizon — for men. While men and women both have their thoughts about the ability for men to take control over their sexual lives in a way that women have had since the 1960s, others may not understand how this birth control might work, or how this transition of “power” might feel. Although there are qualms on both sides of the fence about hormonal birth control for men, the current alternatives for men include vasectomy (painful and not always reversible), condoms (blunt pleasure and may break or slip off), coitus interruptus and trust in the female partner to take a birth control pill.

The following two lists contain everything you might want to know about the male birth control pill. One category includes both the various methods of male birth control now in experimentation and their known drawbacks. The second category contains perceptions about male birth control today. The links in this article all lead to various news articles, encyclopedias and more than illustrate and help to explain the options further.

The Methods and Drawbacks

Extra Testosterone: Researchers at Edinburgh University’s Centre for Reproductive Biology have found a way to suppress daily sperm production while maintaining normal testosterone levels. Giving a man extra testosterone can essentially shut down sperm production.
Drawbacks to Testosterone: The trouble with this method is that giving a man the amount of testosterone necessary to suppress sperm production can cause several unwanted side effects, including acne, weight gain, prostate-gland growth and abnormal liver function. Some men who have participated in test studies, however, feel few side effects.
Progesterone: A more promising alternative uses a combination of testosterone and another sex hormone: progestogen (progesterone). In low doses, progestogen suppresses the reproductive hormone system of both men and women — progestogen is a component of the female birth-control pill. In men, it inhibits sperm production in the testes.
Drawbacks to Progesterone: The drawback to using progesterone is that it can also affect male sexuality and sexual characteristics, so men who take progestogen must also have testosterone injections to maintain those characteristics. In some male birth control studies, a simple testosterone injection was used with great success.
Eppin: Another form of male birth control targets the immune system. A protein called eppin, which is produced in the testes and epididymis, facilitates sperm maturation. Scientists at the University of Washington have been able to immunize monkeys against eppin. Monkeys that developed an immune response against eppin became infertile, and when they stopped receiving the vaccine injections, they regained their fertility.
Drawbacks to Eppin: As with female birth control, doctors say hormonal contraception for men will have no lasting effects on fertility, and that sperm counts should return to normal quite quickly once a man goes off the injections. Some men may experience mild side effects from the jabs such as hot flashes, mood swings or acne.
Progestogen Etonogestrel: Researchers from the pharmaceutical companies Organon and Schering AG have conducted a major study on a male contraceptive implant. In 2002, they began phase II clinical trials of a male birth-control implant containing the progestogen etonogestrel — a hormone also present in hormonally-based contraception for women (Note: Organon has been a part of the Schering-Plough corporation since 2007).
Drawbacks to Progestogen Etonogestrel: Because etonogestrel blocks testosterone as well as sperm production, men who get this implant would also need to receive testosterone injections. The phase II trial finished in December 2005, and by 2008, when the etonogestrel esters were introduced on the patent market, it was stated that no effective and efficient methods of male contraception from this method were available.
Non-Hormonal Methods: Because of the challenges of creating a hormonally-based male birth-control pill, researchers are looking into non-hormonal methods to lower sperm count or somehow disable the sperm so that they cannot fertilize an egg. The idea behind non-hormonal methods is to use a biochemical messenger to block a protein called “Cs” that ‘turns on’ the tail of the sperm that allows that sperm to swim through the epididymis. But, the process would need to block the sperm and yet leave it basically healthy.
Drawbacks to Non-Hormonal Methods: However, many scientists feel the non-hormonal method is the ‘holy grail‘ in male contraceptive research, as Big Pharma might be less interested in a product that is less profitable.
High-Tech Solutions: New techniques that do not involve Big Pharm or hormones include ultrasound methods that scramble the sperm, an implantable ring that zaps sperm rather than blocking the passage of that sperm and devices that actually block the sperm. At present all these methods are undergoing clinical trials, but you can learn more about them at Male Contraceptives.
Drawbacks to High-Tech Solutions: None known yet, other than getting them from the laboratory to the market.

Issues Surrounding Male Birth Control

Ignorance: Despite the progress on male birth control, and despite the fact that female contraceptives have been on the market for almost half a century, there is much ignorance about how and when to use birth control. For instance, 29 percent of men and 32 percent of women reported knowing “little or nothing about condoms.” 78 percent of men and 45 percent of women said the same about birth control pills.
Willingness to try: Of the 71 percent of American men who said they’d be willing to try at least one form of male contraceptive, 66 percent said they’d try the pill. And, in an international study of 4,000 men and women, more than two-thirds of the men said they would use a birth-control pill if it were available, and 75 percent of the women said they would trust their partner to handle the birth control.
Reduction of Condom Use: Health experts fear that the use of the pill among men who are not in monogamous relationships could reduce condom use and increase the spread of sexually-transmitted diseases. People felt that regardless of a woman’s use of other contraceptive methods, a condom should always be used for protection. This belief, however, differed markedly from actual practice.

While men have fewer and more drastic choices available to them today, the possibility that a male birth control method is on the horizon is a distinct possibility. Learning about the various methods now may help individuals choose what they would like to do in the future, should the need arise. Men may have more options for birth control in the future than women did in the past.

Teen Pregnancy in America: Facts and Statistics (Infographic)

Diana — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 10:26:10 +0000

In 2005, 17 states declined abstinence-only funding. Of those 17, only three, or 17.6 percent, had teen pregnancy rates higher than the national average. Fifteen of the 34 states, or 44 percent, that accepted the funding and teach abstinence-only sex education in public schools had teen pregnancy rates higher than the average. In many cases, teen pregnancies are terminated. However, as you’ll see, the number of teen pregnancies do not necessarily correlate with the number of teen abortions, by region nor overall.

Click the image below to enlarge

Top 50 Mommybloggers To Help You With Your New Baby

Miranda — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:37:28 +0000

Having a baby can be overwhelming. Raising your baby as he or she grows into a child and then a teenager and beyond can also be overwhelming. The good news is that there are plenty of people who feel like you do. If you are interested in finding some inspiration and support for your work raising a new baby, here are some of the best mommy blogs around. These mommy bloggers can help you with your new baby — and beyond.

Newborns

Understanding how to care for newborns can be a daunting task. Especially if you are a first time mom. Here are some mommy bloggers that can help you find your way:

MomBlog: This collection of blogs from FamilyLife offers helpful insight on different stages of development. The newborns blog is written by different moms who share their perspectives and wisdom in caring for the newest addition to your family.
Breastfeeding 1-2-3: With helpful advice on breastfeeding from Angela, a breastfeeding lawyer, this great resource provides practical advice on making it work for you and your newborn.
Baby Care Answers: Get answers to some of your baby care questions. This blog is written by Cortney Gibson, a mom dedicated to helping parents of newborns take better care of their babies.
Babylune: Learn how to take care of your baby, and get helpful parenting tips from Eliza Ferree.
Breastfeeding Mums Blog: Another breastfeeding blog, this one helps you learn about the benefits of breastfeeding and how it can work for you.
Nursing Your Kids: This blog is mostly about the different ways your newborn can benefit from breastfeeding. Give your newborn the best start.
Cloth Diaper Blog: If you are interested in a “greener” way to care for your newborn, you can get good information and tips from this blog about effective cloth diapering.
What to Expect: The author of the popular What to Expect When You’re Expecting, Heidi Murkoff, has a site/blog full of articles about baby care and newborn care. It’s not just about the pregnancy.
ModernMommyBlog: This blog is written by a mom with a sociology degree and who teaches about child development. She a child just out of the newborn stage, and a great deal of insight on what happens in the first year, and beyond.
The Natural Newborn’s Blog: For eco-conscious parents, this blogger is intent on helping you find ways to take care of your baby in a more natural way.
Suburban Cloth: This is another diaper blog about cloth diapers and using them for more natural care of your newborn. Christine helps you learn how to care for your baby in a more natural manner.
Molly Hilton Baby: This blog isn’t exactly about caring for your newborns. But if you are interested in having your baby photographed, Molly Hilton can provide you with some great ideas.

Twins and Multiples

Taking care of multiple babies can be difficult on any parent. There are plenty of blogs about caring for twins and multiples that can help you figure out what needs to be done — or just provide a little support and perspective.

Twins & Multiples: Pamela Prindle Fierro has identical twin girls, and provides a number of helpful insights on her About.com blog.
How Do You Do It?: This blog offers insight from a number of mothers who parent multiples. These is even information on this blog about caring for preemies.
BeTwinned: A great place to go to learn about parenting multiples — and doing it with cancer.
The Joys of Twins: Learn how to take care of twins, and other multiples. Dawn has interesting insights and a clean style, making her clear and approachable.
4tunate: Follow the life adventures of a “quatro mama” who had quadruplets.
Got Triplets? This blog is devoted to raising three firecracker girls who happen to be triplets.
Multiples… and More!: This blog is all about having multiples, how to care for them, and sharing stories about how they can change your life.
Twin Utero: Thoughts and insight on parenting twins, and overcoming the challenges.
Susan Heim on Parenting: Susan is a mommy blogger writing about parenting multiples from a Christian perspective.
Les Sharma: Twin boys, along with an older boy. A great look on dealing with the craziness that is parenting three active boys.
Looky, Daddy!: It’s not exactly a mommy blog, but it does offer insight into caring for twins — especially when you already have another child. This stay-at-home dad tells it like it is.

Special Needs

Many parents find out during pregnancy, or soon after the birth, that their child is a special needs child. Looking online for those who can understand and who can provide you with helpful hints on parenting can be a real godsend.

Special Needs Children: Another great offering from About.com. Terri Mauro provides helpful information on taking proper care of a special needs child.
The Special Needs Parent Blog: Joan helps you find strategies to parent your special needs child, whether he or she is a baby or getting older.
To The Max: This blog is about parenting a child with cerebral palsy. Ellen writes honestly about taking care of Max from the time he was born.
speak softly…: Vicki’s special needs child passed away, but she still blogs about disabilities, and advocates for children. A great blog for reading about caring for children with special needs, and getting through the pain of losing a child.
Slurping Life: Melody has given birth to and adopted boys with different special needs. Her kids are affected by bipolar, ADHD, cerebral palsy and autism.
1-2-3 Autism Free: This mommy blogger writes about caring for a baby and, later, a child with autism.
MOM — Not Otherwise Specified: A great blog written by a mom raising a child on the autism spectrum.
Cerebral Palsy Baby: Shannon writes about having cerebral palsy and still giving birth. An interesting perspective.
Parenting Children with Special Needs: This blog is found on an adoption blog, and can provide insight to those who adopt a baby with special needs.

Parenting with Attitude

Sometimes, when you are dealing with the stresses of a new baby, what you really need is someone irreverent to help you get through it. You also may need some laughter and insight from a source with attitude. These mommy bloggers can help you laugh and get through it all when you really need it.

Badgermama: With her purple hair, Liz occasionally raises some eyebrows. But her fresh approach to parenting can be a real help.
Chookooloonnks: With a sly wit, Karen shares her thoughts on motherhood and life.
IzzyMom: This sarcastic mom has an irreverent view of life. She is a non-traditional in a number of ways, and can provide a bit of spunk and attitude to your day.
Fussy: Eden blogs about raising children and doing it with a little attitude.
Motherhood Uncensored: Just what you would expect: An unapologetic and unflinching view of the ups and downs of parenting.
Not Calm (dot com): Read about the crazy life of Jen, a mother of four. Brings a little laughter and perspective to your day.
Notes from the Trenches: Learn about the insane life of Chris, a mother who works hard to keep her six boys and one girl in line.
Three Kid Circus: Jenny is a seasoned mother of three who can help you learn how to raise your kids with a little levity.
Karen Sugarpants: This mother is often hilarious, sharing thoughts on motherhood and helping you get away from it for a little bit.
Mama Drama: Houston Chronicle readers weigh in about motherhood. A range of experiences from a variety of mommy bloggers.

Finding Balance

A new baby can make it difficult for you to accomplish everything you feel you should. Here are some blogs that can help you find yourself again — and still be a good (or at least adequate!) mother.

It’s All About Balance: April shares her thoughts on keeping it all together.
The Journey: Renee blogs about finding balance and peace, starting on the inside.
On Balance: Leslie blogs for The Washington Post about finding that balance between work life and home life. A valuable resource for working moms with new babies.
Dirty Laundry: A helpful blog about knowing what to let slide, and figuring out what is important.
Birth Balance: A blog devoted to finding balance and harmony throughout the birthing and postpartum processes.
Postpartum Progress: Addresses the issue of postpartum depression, and what can be done about it.
PPD Survivor: Learn how to deal with postpartum depression.
Motherlode: This blog from The New York Times writer Lisa offers insight on newborns, finding balance, caring for yourself and addressing emotional issues in child rearing.