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50 Pregnancy Experts Worth Following on Twitter

Miranda — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 23:17:21 +0000

When it comes to pregnancy, you want to have the information you need to make informed decisions and keep your growing baby healthy. You don’t have to be an ultrasound technician to keep track of what is happening with pregnancy. Indeed, you can learn quite a bit by looking online. Technology allows you to connect with a number of qualified experts and health care professionals who can help you learn more about pregnancy. Here are 50 pregnancy experts on Twitter who can help you learn more about pregnancy, and what to expect:

Fertility Issues

Learn more about fertility, and address infertility issues with help from these fertility experts.

@fertilityauthor: Claire understands fertility, and offers interesting information getting pregnant.
@fertilitychick: An interesting look at fertility issues, and the effort to get pregnant.
@SherInstitute:Information from a network of fertility clinics and experts.
@conceive: Learn more about how to conceive, some of the issues related to conception and tips to help you.
@mnt_fertility: This center offers news and information on fertility, including male infertility issues.
@fertilityyoga: This yoga expert is also an expert on how yoga can enhance fertility.
@MyFertilityPlan: Learn more about fertility, how to increase your chances of getting pregnant, and more.
@fertilityearth: A look at fertility news, tips and more.
@pregnancy_hopes: Meant for those trying to get pregnant and interested in fertility issues.

Healthy Pregnancy

Learn more about having a healthy pregnancy, and get tips on keeping your growing baby healthy.

@fitpregnancy: The experts at Fit Pregnancy magazine share insights on a health pregnancy.
@HeidiMurkoff: Author of What to Expect When You’re Expecting offers insights into health pregnancy.
@What_To_Expect: Learn more about pregnancy and learn more about how to be healthy.
@ExpectantMother: A good look at having a health pregnancy, and targeted information for your location.
@PregAwareness: Be aware of how your choices can affect your pregnancy.
@pregnancyorg: Experts discuss pregnancy and better health throughout.
@PregnancyWeekly: Learn more about better pregnancy habits and how you can improve your health.
@TheCradle: Excellent information from pregnancy and childbirth experts.
@PregCompanion: Expert advice and tips on pregnancy, and how to remain healthy during this time.
@babybumpfitness: Learn more about fitness during pregnancy.
@Alisa_Pregnancy: Shares information on pregnancy and fit pregnancy.

High Risk/Difficult Pregnancy

Get tools, tips and information from experts on how to handle difficult pregnancies, as well as high risk pregnancies. Includes some great insights on multiples pregnancies.

@PregnancyIssues: Focuses on issues related to pregnancy, difficulties during pregnancy and more.
@micropreemies: About preemies. Learn about pregnancies that end early.
@TheTwinners: Learn about having a twin pregnancy and other aspects of high risk pregnancies.
@Lyrehca: This expert can help you learn to balance pregnancy with diabetes.
@Jennandtonica: This mom knows about multiples and the difficulties that type of pregnancy can present.
@idoiagkikas: A good look at twin pregnancy and other multiples issues.
@speedglenn: Learn more about coping with a difficult pregnancy. These tweets are protected, though.
@chamberlynmarks: Learn about bed rest and find tips for getting through a tough pregnancy.
@achronicdose: Information on chronic disease, including coping during pregnancy.

Labor and Delivery

Learn what you need to know about labor and delivery. Includes insights from L & D nurses.

@nursemidwife: Learn more about pregnancy, labor, delivery and more from this nurse midwife.
@SarahStewart: This nurse educator is also very knowledgeable about midwifery and childbirth.
@NFP_nursefamily: A look at mothers’ health and children. Includes information on pregnancy and childbirth from a nurse practitioner perspective.
@macobyn: This MD knows about pregnancy and childbirth, and provides valuable insight.
@academicobgyn: More information on childbirth and pregnancy issues from a physician.
@Contemporaryob: Focusing on women’s health care, this pregnancy expert knows about childbirth, and is dedicated to providing information on all your options.

Natural Childbirth

Find out more about natural childbirth, homebirth and related issues. Includes some insights from midwives and doulas.

@BirthwaysDoulas: Learn more about natural childbirth from Jeanette McCulloch, a pregnancy and early parenting expert and doula.
@midwifeamy: This midwife knows about birth, and about using variety natural methods. Writes for Lamaze International.
@obgynrebel: This Ob/Gyn sees room for change in the current situation. A great look at natural options.
@birthispowerful: More on how you can be empowered through giving birth.
@tranquildoula: This birth doula shares information about natural childbirth and more.
@greenmidwife: More about natural birth and green birthing from this midwife.
@BornDoula: Learn more about natural childbirth options and information that can help you have a better experience.
@PUSHds: A look at natural childbirth, tips for having a natural pregnancy and more information about natural health.
@BirthingWithin: More on natural childbirth options, holistic pregnancy and more. Helpful information and education on natural pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Get the skinny on breastfeeding. Learn more about this, and learn how you can keep yourself healthy in order to help provide nutrition for your new baby.

@HygeiaKate: Breastfeeding expert shares insight and more on the benefits of breastfeeding.
@BreastfeedingM: The magazine on breastfeeding offers helpful information and tips for breastfeeding.
@TheBFCenter: Experts from the Breastfeeding Center offer advice, tips and more, as well as news on mother and baby health.
@Breastfeeding_:Learn to be comfortable with breastfeeding, and learn tips for better breastfeeding.
@BreastfeedBaby: Information, tools, tips and insights on breastfeeding, women’s health and baby health.
@_breastfeeding: International expert on breastfeeding shares insights, news, research and more related to pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Top 50 Birth Control Blogs

Linda — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 22:26:27 +0000

Birth control blogs run the gamut, from educational blogs for teens to religious blogs that are pro-choice or pro-life. Along the way, you might stumble onto blogs that talk about population issues and climate change alongside entries about birth control. But, the hot button issue behind birth control — outside education — is the right to choose, or reproductive rights, which are considered a human rights issue. This list of top 50 birth control blogs contain all these topics and more.

Educational Blogs

Below the Waist: This blog focuses on reproductive health freedom and focuses on birth control and sexual education as well.
Birthcontrol: This blog is a place to discuss birth control issues and options such as hormonal methods, condoms, IUDs, FAM, and more.
Contraception Blog: Dawn is a published author and a former family planning specialist, health educator, and pregnancy options counselor for Planned Parenthood.
Everyday Health Sexual Health: This section of Everyday Health talks about sexual health issues, including birth control.
Gurl Sex Ed: The gURL sex ed blog is about educating young women on issues pertaining to sex and sexuality.
Institute for Women’s Health Blog: The mission of the Institute for Women’s Health Research is to accelerate the rate of discovery in the sciences that impact women’s health and well-being.
Kinsey Confidential: This site offers a number of resources, including blogs and podcasts focused on relationships, birth control, pregnancy and more.
Our Bodies Ourselves: OBOS, also known as the Boston Women’s Health Book Collective (BWHBC), is a nonprofit, public interest women’s health education, advocacy, and consulting organization.
Scarleteen: Founded in 1998, this site is visited by around three-quarters of a million diverse people each month worldwide, most between the ages of 15 and 25.
Sex, etc.: This blog is by teens and for teens and focuses on teen health, love and relationships, sexual decisions and rational talk about birth control.
Sexual Health Buzz: “Enjoying safer sex one condom at a time…” is the motto for this blog.
The complete sexual health blog for men and women: This blog discusses common issues related to sexual health for both sexes.
Unzipped: This sexual health blog focuses on diseases and safe sex.
Well Woman Blog: Topics covered by this blog include menstruation, menopause, birth control and pregnancy.
Women’s Health: Learn more about your body, including menstruation and birth control, with this blog by Tracee Cornforth.

Birth Control Methods

Birth Control Buzz: This is an up-to-date and informative company blog that offers various forms of birth control for sale and uses their blog to talk about each product.
Fertili-Talk: This blog talks about fertility and natural family planning, along with various birth control methods.
Healthy Women Birth Control Center: This section of the Healthy Women blog offers information on all types of birth control methods.
Natural Family Planning: This blog’s main focus, written by the former Family Planning Coordinator for the Catholic Diocese of Madison in Southwest Wisconsin, is to “lift up the beauty of NFP, fertility, children and family life.”
The Abstinence Clearinghouse Blog: This is a non-profit international educational organization.
The Ruth Institute: This site is all about abstinence and marriage as the proper context for sex, with college students as a focus for this pro-life, pro-family, anti-gay and anti-divorce message.
The Well-Timed Period: This blog covers about every known birth control in existence.
Undercover Condoms: This blog, brought to you by Undercover Condoms, is a place to learn more about safe sex, product information, new sales and specials.

Population Issues

Optimum Population Trust News Watch: This blog talks about birth control along with other issues about overpopulation.
Population Action International: This blog focuses on the ability for couples to determine the size of their families globally.
Population Media Center Blog: PMC was founded in 1998 by William Ryerson, with the intention of using the extensive experience of experts in entertainment-education to spread the application of the Sabido methodology in addressing population and reproductive health issues.
Population Research Institute: The Population Research Institute, founded by Fr. Paul Marx, O.S.B., is a non-profit research group whose goals are to “expose the myth of overpopulation.”
Runaway Human Population: This blog is focused on a dialogue about human population and its impacts with a variety of topics, including reproductive health and procreation.

Reproductive Rights

Abortionclinicdays: Abortion providers tell stories about their work and the people they help, and most stories focus on individual rights and a pro-choice stance.
ACLU Reproductive Freedom: This project protects everyone’s right to make informed decisions free from government interference about whether and when to become a parent.
Advocates for Youth: Established in 1980 as the Center for Population Options, Advocates for Youth champions efforts that help young people make informed and responsible decisions about their reproductive and sexual health.
Center for Reproductive Rights: Get daily news here, along with reports from around the world regarding contraception and reproductive rights issues.
Naral Blog for Choice: Reproductive rights are the main issue in this blog, supported by NARAL Pro-Choice America.
Raising Women’s Voices: This blog focuses on comprehensive reproductive health care, pre-natal care, maternity care, primary and preventive services, acute care, dental and mental health care as well as chronic care for women.
Repossess Reproductive Justice: RepoRepro is the blog of Law Students for Reproductive Justice.
Reproductive Rights Prof Blog: This blog provides resources, news, and information of particular interest to law school professors who teach and write in the area of reproductive rights.
RH Reality Check: This is an online community and publication serving individuals and organizations committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Say It, Sister! This is the National Organization for Women’s blog for equality, focusing on reproductive rights and other issues.
Women’s Law Project Blog: The Women’s Law Project has a stellar record of achievement protecting reproductive freedom in Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the United States.
Womenstake Blog: This is the blog of the National Women’s Law Center, which focuses on reproductive rights and advocacy.

Religious, Ethnic and Localized Blogs

Catholics for Choice: CFC was founded in 1973 to serve as a voice for Catholics who believe that the Catholic tradition supports a woman’s moral and legal right to follow her conscience in matters of sexuality and reproductive health.
Choice 2.0: This is the Planned Parenthood blog for central North Carolina.
Lutherans and Procreation: This blog is addressed to the “negative issue of contraception and the positive issue of procreation.”
National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum: This blog provides news and information about women’s health in Asian-American communities.
National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health: NLIRH works to ensure the fundamental human right to reproductive health and justice for Latinas.
Planned Parenthood Advocate Blog: This blog is focused on pro-choice rights for individuals who live in Minnesota and in North and South Dakota.
Planned Parenthood Illinois Action: This is the Planned Parenthood blog for the state of Illinois.
Teen Source: Another sex education blog, developed by the California Family Health Council, geared toward California teens.
Tell Them: This blog is all about reducing the incidence rates of underage pregnancies, HIV and STIs in South Carolina.
The Native American Women’s Health Education Resource Center: This is a Native American Community Board project focused on reproductive rights issues.

Top 40 Web Tools to Find Ultrasound Technician Jobs

Linda — Wed, 26 May 2010 20:13:23 +0000

If you’re seeking a job as an ultrasound technician, sonographer, echo tech, or ultrasonographer after you graduate with your degree, you might be looking in the wrong places. While large job sites are great to get a feel of what’s available, you also can use organizational sites, job-specific sites, hospital sites and recruiters to find jobs. This list of the top 40 Web tools to find ultrasound technician jobs provides that resource for you, where you can search quickly and easily for your specific concentration in the medical imaging field.

Only a handful of hospital sites are listed below, only to provide you with an idea of what to look for in hospital medical imaging jobs.

Specific Job Searches

AIUM Career Center: AIUM (American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine) Career Center is the premier electronic recruitment resource for the industry.
Cardiac Ultrasound Tech Jobs: One place to search specifically for openings in this career option.
Echo Cardiographer: Echocardiographer.net has assembled a complete and up-to-date look at the Echocardiographer job market, salary trends, training requirements, licensing, and certification information.
Get Diagnostic Medical Sonography Jobs: A site that focuses entirely on medical sonography jobs and networking.
Health Imaging Hub: This link leads to a page where jobs in radiography, PACS and more are listed and updated daily.
Hot Radiology Jobs: Post your resume and browse through jobs that cover just about every field within the ultrasound profession.
iHire Radiology: Search thousands of Radiology Jobs from this site’s exclusive job postings, internet job boards, newspapers, and classified ads.
Radiology Technologist Jobs: Learn about ultrasound jobs at radRounds Web site. Look to the left menu to see more choices.
RadiologyWorkers: This site carries a directory that allows users to dig down for jobs by state.
Radworking: All jobs posted at this site are renewed or purged every 60 days.
RSG Australia: This company specializes in the recruitment and placement of Sonographers throughout Australia both as locum and permanent staff.
RT Students Radiology Job Board: While jobs listed here are not numerous, they are appropriate for students who have just acquired a degree.
RT Jobs: Seek jobs in radiology, imaging and radiation oncology at this site.
Soliant Health’s Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: Soliant Health can help you leverage the growing need for ultrasound technologists with a great job, virtually anywhere in the country.
SVU Online Job Center: The Society for Vascular Ultrasound offers technicians job opportunities on this page.
Ultrasound Jobs: This site is the official ARDMS partner career site.
Ultrasound Tech Career Search: Search for jobs and network with other medical professionals at this site.
Ultrasound Technician Jobs: This site provides a simple search engine to find jobs by city, state or zip and by job title.
Ultrasound Technologist Jobs: Search for an ultrasound job and upload your resume.

Medical Job Searches and Recruiters

4AliedHealth Jobs: This page in this health care job search site focuses specifically on ultrasound jobs.
Advance for Healthcare Careers: This search engine allows users to look for radiology jobs by location.
All Healthcare Jobs: This site provides job opportunities in ultrasound as well as in other health imaging jobs.
Allied Health Employment: This site offers job searches in New Zealand, Australia, the Middle East and in the UK. Not all jobs are centered on medical imaging, but they are all medical positions.
Aureus Medical Group: Turn to Aureus for the best local contract, national contract (travel) and direct hire opportunities nationwide.
CoreMedical Group: CoreMedical Group is a national healthcare staffing company specializing in travel and permanent placement of medical personnel positions in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the U.S.
Health Career Web: Use this medical job search site to find jobs in sonography and ultrasound.
Health Direction: This site carries medical jobs and lists ultrasound technician jobs. You can search by state or by specific job.
HealthStaff Recruitment: HealthStaff Recruitment in Australia is seeking expressions of interest from Radiographers with skills in a variety of specialties.
Med Travelers: This company is an AMN Healthcare company that matches qualified allied healthcare professionals to temporary assignments and permanent positions.
MedHunters: This link leads directly to ultrasound and sonography jobs within this medical job search site.
Medical Workers: This link leads to ultrasound jobs, but you can search for other radiology positions through their search engine.
PhysiciansJobsPlus: Don’t let the name of the site turn you away — this site carries a number of radiology jobs for those who search for them (this link takes you to a list).
SA International: SA International finds medical jobs in Saudi Arabia for medical professionals, including Allied Health Professionals.
Stat Group Medical Jobs: If you want to travel with your job as an ultrasound tech, a radiologist or as an X-ray tech, visit this site to learn more.

20 Useful Social Networking Sites for Expecting Mothers

Miranda — Tue, 18 May 2010 20:46:15 +0000

Technology has provided a lot of new understanding about pregnancy and fetal development. We think of ultrasounds a lot, but technology also makes it possible for us to find information using the Internet, and connect with others. If you are interested in sharing pregnancy stories and getting support from women who know exactly how you feel, here are 20 useful social networking sites for expecting moms:

Pregnancy Social Networks

Track your baby’s development, and share stories with other women. Find good advice and support, and develop friendships.

My Pregnancy: This social network is designed to help you show off your growing belly, and share your concerns. Offer advice, share pictures and find support. All provides support for those who are trying to conceive, and those who have had multiple pregnancies. A great place for women to interact.
Pregnancy Social Pages: Watch pregnancy and birth videos, ask questions, provide your own insight, and share with others. This is a great place to learn about pregnancy, as well as interact with others via forums or chat. You can post your own photos and videos, and even find great music.
Wepreggo: This fun and sassy pregnancy social network is all about you and your online friends. Discuss pregnancy challenges and joys, ask questions, and share your story. Pregnancy is a uniquely female experience, and sometimes it is beneficial to share your thoughts and feelings with those who can truly understand you.
Baby Gaga: While there are some tips about parenting and newborns, this social network is mainly aimed at pregnant women. Share ultrasound pictures and videos, get good information, and join discussions. You can also get a free pregnancy tickers to help keep everyone updated on your baby’s development.
What To Expect: This social network features forums, information on conception and pregnancy help. This site is based on the popular book What to Expect When You’re Expecting, and provides a wealth of great information. Get what you need when it comes to knowing what to expect during your pregnancy.
Baby Chums: Interact with other pregnant women, learning about baby products, getting solid advice, and sharing your own insights. Be part of a supportive group of women. Also includes information and helpful hints on carrying for infants and raising children.
My Twin Pregnancy and Beyond: Are you experiencing a multiples birth? If you are going to be the mom of twins — or more! — this site is for you. Geared toward the special challenges faced by mothers of twins, this social networking site can give you some great insight and much needed support.
BabyCenter: Share photos and videos, and interact on the forums. Ask questions and get answers. You can also make use of baby calendars and other fun products and services for your pregnancy. Connect with others and read enlightening articles related to pregnancy and parenting.
Pregnancy Planet: Connect with others on this pregnancy social networking sites. Forum posts include how to talk to your children about your pregnancy, and other interesting topics. Ask and answer questions, read interesting articles, and share photos. Learn about pregnancy around the world.
MothersClick: This social network is meant for new moms and expecting mothers. Get interesting insights on motherhood, becoming a mom, and what to expect. Share your challenges and triumphs, and talk with other pregnant and new moms about the latest pop culture trends. A fun place to enjoy the water cooler with other expecting and new moms.

Parenting/Being a Mom Social Networks

Get helpful parenting advice and interact with other moms. A great way to recharge and find the support you need from great women all over the world.

CafeMom: This is a great place to go to meet moms from all over the world. You can learn about pregnancy, infant care, and raising children through their teens. Vent, play games and get the latest news in the world of mom. Weigh in with your opinion on controversies and the challenges facing moms today.
Super Parenting Social Network: Get parenting news and tips. You can share your insights and frustrations related to parenting and being a mom. Includes helpful advice from other parents striving to be super parents. A great resource for those looking to connect with other parents from around the world.
MomJunction: The place where you can meet with other moms. This is a fun place to share your stories, and find answers to pressing questions. Learn about being a mom, get parenting advice, and share your own thoughts. Forums and groups can be lively and interesting.
Moxie Moms: This web site is a Canadian site offering a fun place to chat with other mothers, and learn about parenting. Also includes awesome deals that can help you save money and find quality products and services. Get to know other moms, and show your own moxie.
Everything Mom: Keep up with what’s going on in the world of mom. A great place to go when you need to escape for a few minutes. Get parenting advice, vent, interact and find great recipes. Also features fun contests and giveaways. You can also get paid for your opinion when you test different products and services.
Mom Logic: This mom community is all about what moms are talking about right now. Discuss controversy, learn tips for smart shopping and staying safe. Talk about issues that are affecting moms and kids right now, and get solid parenting advice, including information for working moms. A great place to go for information, conversation and more.
Posh Mama: Are you a hip mom? If so, this social network is for you. Features fun and fashionable talk, information about celebrities and pop culture happenings. It’s a positive place for women to congregate online, and a fun place to meet and interact with other moms, working moms and stay at home moms alike.
Twitter Moms: If you are interested in connecting with moms via Twitter, this is a good place to go. You don’t even have to be on Twitter to join in on this great social networking site. Get parenting tips, find good deals and chat with other moms. You can also look for meetups and get to know some fantastic new friends in person.

Social Networking for Dads

No reason to leave the dads out. Here are two great social networks for dads to connect. Plus, if you are a mom, you can check these sites out for some good insight.

Brand New Dad: This is a solid social networking site for expecting dads who want to know what to expect, get good parenting advice, and share their stories. You can shop, get advice from the forums, and share your own insight. A great place to go if you are a man who wants to be an active parent.
Odadeo: This social networking site seeks to help you answer this question: “How am I going to be a great dad?” Find tips, make pledges and ask questions. A great place to find support from other dads, and get good parenting advice that can help you be a better husband and father.

17 Beautiful Infographics to Learn About Pregnancy

Miranda — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 21:32:23 +0000

Pregnancy can be a fascinating and joyful time. There are many changes going on inside your body. Even before the fetus inside you can be seen via ultrasound, growth and development are taking place. Pregnancy really is a time for you to learn and grow, and to enjoy the baby developing within you. Here are 17 infographics that can help you learn about pregnancy:

Fetal Development

This might be the most interesting thing about pregnancy. Learning about how your baby develops, and tracking development on an ultrasound, can be exciting.

Fetal development: Learn about your baby at each stage of fetal development with this interactive infographic from Just the Facts. It’s an interesting project that looks at facts about pregnancy and reproduction, and offers helpful information and images related to fetal development throughout pregnancy. You can gain an understanding of how the fetus develops over time, while observing exactly when certain body parts form.
Movement: At about eight weeks, your baby can begin moving — you might even feel it. If you are interested in seeing what your baby looks like at this stage (when he or she can move), you can see this great image from the Mayo Clinic. Also includes interesting information about when the eyelids begin to close. A great resource for helping you track fetal development.
Development and viability: An interesting time line describing major milestones of fetal development and viability during pregnancy. Includes information about formation of different body systems, hair development on the head and includes information on premature survival rates. A great overview of what happens, in terms of a baby’s growth and development, during pregnancy.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: What happens when you consume alcohol while pregnant? Well, there is the change that your baby could develop Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). This can affect your child’s development and even appearance. This infographic from the University of New South Wales offers an interesting summary of the physical changes that can result when a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy.
Smoking during pregnancy: When you smoke during pregnancy, that can actually affect fetal development as well. This infographic from the March of Dimes points out that there could be a reduction in stillbirths and newborn deaths if women didn’t smoke during pregnancy. Additionally, smoking increases the chance of low birth weight, as well as pre-term delivery. There are other health issues that can affect fetal development as a result of a woman smoking during pregnancy. Even secondhand smoke can have an effect on fetal development.

Pregnancy Facts and Statistics

Learn a little bit more about pregnancy and get the facts about what happens. Also, find interesting information about home births and birth choices.

Rise in home births: As people have become more interested in home birth, there has been an increase in the number of home births taking place. This infographic shows the different places where people have births outside the hospital. Home births are more common, but people also give birth in clinics and doctor’s offices, birthing centers and in other places (such as emergency births in cars).
Home birth safety: There has been an interest in home births over the last few years, and the debate over how safe they are has been rather rampant. If you are interested in learning more about home birth, The Compleat Mother offers a comparison of different birth injuries that take place in home births as opposed to in hospitals. Of course, this information doesn’t take into account the fact that many high risk births are, by necessity, hospital births.
Where’s the baby? Get an idea of where the baby is in terms of placement in your body. This interesting infographic from Elledge Chiropractic Blog looks at where the baby is in terms of the spine, as well as marking how much it has grown in you, and the space it is taking up. Also includes information on where your stomach sits after the baby has dropped. A fascinating look at how pregnancy looks inside your own body.
Getting bigger: This infographic offers a look at the development of a pregnant woman on the outside. At 14 weeks, this woman barely looks pregnancy at all. However, by 38 week, she’s really starting to look big. A great visual look at how the body changes on the outside during pregnancy. You can also see the different places where weight gain takes place on the body, and how it affects your outward appearance. A great way to prepare yourself for the changes that will occur during pregnancy.
Teen pregnancy: Many people are interested in statistics and facts on teen pregnancy. If you want to know a little bit more about teen pregnancy, this infographic published on Medicine. Technology. Web. is a great one. It shows pregnancy rates, and illustrates the states with the highest teen pregnancy rates. It also includes interesting information about abortion, as well as attitudes regarding sexual education in schools, and other related issues.

Reproductive Facts

Learn about reproduction, and how you get pregnant in the first place. Find out how it all works out.

Female reproductive system: Learn about the parts to the female reproductive system from Web MD. Also includes an explanation of the functions of each part, and the role each part plays in pregnancy. It’s an interesting look at what happens during pregnancy — and where it all takes pace.
Menstrual cycle: Use this colorful infographic to help you learn about the menstrual cycle. Menstruation is an important part of the reproductive process, making the whole process of pregnancy possible. It follows the course of an egg through the female reproductive system, and provides you with the chance to see how pregnancy begins — or how the egg remains unfertilized, leaving you without a developing fetus in your body.
Breasts: Your breasts are affected by your pregnancy. They begin to grow larger as your baby develops within you. Then, when the baby is born, they become a natural source for food. This interesting infographic offers a number of interesting things you should know about breasts — information that is helpful and fascinating. Read these 15 important facts, and learn something more about yourself, and your own reproductive system.
Semen: Pregnancy isn’t just about women; men often have to do something, too. And, while it is possible to use semen from a sperm bank to have a baby, a majority of women get pregnant directly. But, whether you use artificial insemination or some more natural method of getting pregnant, semen is involved. Here is an infographic will all sorts of information about semen.

Population, Fertility and Mortality

Part of pregnancy is how it ends. There are a number of facts about population growth, fertility and birth rates.

Birth and fertility: This infographic illustrates birth rates and fertility rates for all the states in the U.S. This is an interesting comparison of birth rates, depending on state. Offers a look at fertility in the U.S., and provides information on average births during a year. Find your state, and see how you stack up in terms of fertility rates.
Mortality: How many babies die each year shortly after birth? This interesting infographic from Gapminder offers a look at infant mortality from a number of countries around the world. It is very easy pick out which countries have the highest rates of infant mortality. On top of noting deaths of infants, this image also includes general health in the countries, as well as the per capita income of the countries. An interesting look at how money and health can affect infant mortality rates around the world.
U.S. population growth: This is an interesting infographic that helps you see the possibilities of U.S. population growth trends up to 2050. The birth trends of major races in the U.S. show that whites are likely to see a declining population. Other ethnic groups, especially Hispanics, are expected to make gains on whites, due to their higher birth rates. If you are interested in birth trends, this can shed some light on pregnancy in different races in the U.S.

Top 50 Sports Medicine Blogs

Miranda — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 04:29:14 +0000

If you are involved with sports medicine, you know that it is important to find good information about better caring for those involved with sports. Sports medicine is becoming increasingly important as we recognize the specific challenges and needs associated with treating injuries caused by participation in sports, as well as keeping bodies healthy and fit for peak athletic performance. Here are 50 of the best sports medicine blogs:

Basic Sports Medicine

These blogs provide an overview of sports medicine, and include discussions on a number of topics related to sports medicine:

Sports Medicine: Learn about proper injury prevention and more from this blog featured on Suite 101.
Sports Injury Info: Get the basics of sports injury news, and information on what you can do to prevent the sorts of injuries that sideline professional athletes.
The Disabled List: A helpful blog that includes a number of common sports injuries, along with how to treat them.
Sports Injury Clinic: Read about how to avoid sports injuries, and what to do with them if you are injured.
Natural Sports Medicine Blog: Learn about issues in sports medicine and how to stay healthy in a natural way.
Doc for Jocks: This sports medicine professional shares insight and information on remaining healthy while playing sports.
Sports Medicine Blog: This About.com blog covers the essentials of sports medicine.
Spine & Sports Medicine Blog: Get insight into how to prevent spinal injury while engaging in sporting activities.
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Blog: Dr. Howard Luks offers a look at how to protect yourself from sports injuries.
Basics Sports Medicine: Get an overview of sports medicine and the basics of avoiding sports related injuries.

Procedures and Rehabilitation

Get helpful information on procedures in sports medicine, as well as rehabilitation information.

Rehab and Sports Medicine Blog: This blog features information on rehabilitation from sports injuries.
Movement Science: This blog and podcast includes helpful information on how the body works through movement, and offers insight into sports medicine.
MikeReinold.com: Learn about different injuries and rehab for those injuries.
Physical Therapy: About.com offers this great blog on physical therapy and how you can rehab from injuries.
SMARTT: This blog looks at sports medicine, arthroscopy, rehabilitation, therapy and technology. Learn the latest advancements in science when it comes to sports medicine rehab procedures.
Manual Therapy and Physical Medicine: Learn about physical medicine and manual therapy, and how it can help with sports injuries.
Physical Therapy Exercises: Interesting exercises that can help with sports injury rehabilitation.
98.6: Dr. Pribut’s Blog: This doctor looks at rehab, and concentrates especially on running injuries.
Commonwealth Sports Medicine: This is an interesting blog from an athlete point of view, helping each other treat sports injuries.
Brent Atwater’s Alternative Sports Medicine: This blog looks at alternative diagnostics and treatments for sports injury rehabilitation.

Sports Training

Learn about proper conditioning so that you train your body to perform well.

Sports Training Blog: Information about techniques and products that can help you improve your sports performance.
Functional Path Training: Learn how to train yourself for better sports performance by following the “functional path.”
Powering Through: This blog is about strength training and conditioning.
Melinda’s Fitness Blog: Get tips on physical conditioning and fitness aimed specifically at women.
Military Fitness Blog: This cool blog helps you train your body the military way.
Fitness Rocks: Train your body for better performance by staying in good shape the health way.
Turbulence Training: Learn how to improve your body’s fitness and conditioning through proper training.
Fitness Trainer Blog: A personal training blog aimed at women, but with great tips for staying in good shape.

Health and Nutrition

Part of avoiding sports injuries and performing at a peak level is to live a healthy lifestyle. These blogs can help you with nutrition and health matters for improved sports performance.

Vitamin Stuff Blog: Learn more about supplements and making sure you get the right nutrients.
Fitness & Health: Dr. Gabe Mirkin offers insight into proper health and fitness.
Sports Nutrition: This blog looks at how you can improve your health and sports performance with proper nutrition.
Advanced Diet and Sports Nutrition Blog: Learn about how an advanced diet can help you improve how you do in sports.
Brad Pilon’s Blog: This is a nutrition blog aimed at helping you improve your health.
Armstrong Podiatry & Sports Health’s Blog: This blog looks at sport health from the perspective of a podiatrist.
Zen to Fitness: Create overall wellness in fitness with this blog aimed at helping you create holistic health.
Fit Buff: Different articles and posts about living a healthy lifestyle and improving your athletic performance.
Lift: Learn about lifestyle choices that can lead to a healthier you.

Specific Sports

Learn about injuries and staying healthy when you play certain sports.

A Trail Runner’s Blog: Stay healthy and avoid injury as a trail runner.
A Passion for Running: This blog looks at how you can get back into it, even if you have been injured.
Yoga Blog: Learn about the benefits of yoga, and how it can help you avoid injury in a number of sports.
Triathlon Training Blog: Get the inside scoop on training for a triathlon and avoiding injury while you do so.
Golf Sports Medicine: Keep injury free while playing golf.
Dr. Josh Dines and Dr. Rock Positano: These two orthopaedic trained docs talk about sports injuries related to soccer and basketball.
Sports Injury Surgery: This blog looks at surgery related to sports injuries.

Anatomy and Physiology

Knowing how the body works and is put together is an essential part of sports medicine. These blogs can help give you an understanding of issues related to how the body works.

Science-Based Medicine: Look at the practice of medicine, and the basics of evidenced based treatments.
Musings of a Distractible Mind: Get an idea of how the body works, and insights into health and wellness, from this primary practice physician.
An Anatomy and Physiology Blog: Learn about the basics of how the human body is put together, how it moves, and how it works.
physiologynews: Get the latest information in physiology and human development.
BooneThink: This blog is devoted to exercise physiology, looking at the way exercise impacts the body.
Anatomy and Physiology Blog: This blog from Sacramento State looks at how the body works, and includes posts on the effects of sports injuries on the body.

50 Excellent Health and Beauty Tips for Your Pregnancy

Miranda — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 23:04:10 +0000

Your pregnancy can be hard on your body. The good news is that you can reduce the impact that pregnancy has on your body by following some basic health and beauty tips. You want to have a healthy pregnancy, and the best thing you can do is to take care of yourself. Here are 50 excellent health and beauty tips that can aid you in having a happier, healthier pregnancy.

Exercise

Physical wellness and strength is an important part of your pregnancy. You want to make sure that you are in the best possible shape. Consult with your health care professional about an exercise routine, and consider these tips for better exercise during pregnancy:

Drink water: You want to make sure that you drink plenty of water when you exercise while pregnant. This will help you remain hydrated, and keep the blood vessels from contracting and cutting off nutrients to your baby.
Avoid dangerous sports: Dangerous sports can harm you and your baby during pregnancy. Mountain biking, high impact aerobics and any sort of extreme sport should be avoided.
Realize that some weight gain is healthy: Don’t go to extremes when exercising. Realize that some weight gain during pregnancy is healthy and desirable. Don’t exercise so much that you are unhealthy.
Consider yoga: Not all yoga is healthy for a pregnancy, but prenatal yoga can be a good way to strengthen and tone your body, while providing you with gentle exercise and a mind-body connection.
Avoid lying flat on your back: Lying flat during exercise can cause problems during pregnancy. If you are concerned about your abs, there are exercises you can do that keep you from lying flat.
Wear appropriate clothing: Proper workout clothing will increase your comfort and ensure that you (and the baby) are not restricted.
Start slowly: This is especially important if you have not been exercising prior to becoming pregnant. Start gradually and work up to more activity.
Consider multiples: There might be additional exercise considerations if you are carrying multiples.
Warm up: Make sure that you properly warm-up your body during pregnancy exercise to avoid injury and other problems.
Cool down: You want to properly disengage your body from the exercises through a good cool down.
Consider post-pregnancy exercise: You want to prepare for post-pregnancy exercises ahead of time. If you ease into from an exercise regimen during pregnancy, it will be a little easier.

Nutrition

Good nutrition helps the fetus develop properly, and can keep you healthy. Here are some nutrition tips to follow during pregnancy:

Don’t get too excited about “eating for two”: While you do need more calories during pregnancy, you do not need more than about 300 extra calories. Don’t double your caloric intact while pregnant.
Get folic acid: This nutrient has been shown to help aid in the development of the baby. Make sure you are getting adequate folic acid.
Get calcium: Your baby’s development is influenced by calcium — as is your bone strength.
Get iron: You can fight fatigue during pregnancy with the proper amount of iron.
Avoid alcohol: You can seriously damage the baby — and yourself — by drinking during pregnancy.
Cut back on caffeine: A great deal of caffeine consumption during pregnancy can slow fetal development by restricting bloodflow to the baby. Reduce your intake for your baby’s sake.
Reduce fatty foods intake: Fatty foods can increase heartburn during pregnancy, not to mention these foods are not rich in the nutrients your baby needs.
Avoid gestational diabetes: You can take steps, such as eating a health diet, to avoid gestational diabetes. Your health care provider will test you and help you avoid the pitfalls that lead to this complication.
Be careful with your Vegan diet: If you are vegan, you can have a healthy pregnancy. Just be sure you are getting adequate protein through your non-animal sources.
Create an eating plan: You can monitor what you eat, and eat more healthy foods, when you create a pregnancy eating plan.

Mental Health and Mood

Part of your health and wellness — and even your beauty — can be traced to mental health and mood. Here are some tips to help you fight mood swings and improve your outlook:

Slow down and avoid fatigue: Fatigue — mental and physical — can affect your mood and your mental health. Slow down and perhaps limit your activities so that you are not as tired.
Get adequate sleep: You can protect yourself from mental fatigue and mood swings by getting enough rest and sleep during pregnancy.
Take time to relax: There are a number of safe things you can do to relax and reduce anxiety during pregnancy. Special massage and other techniques can be used.
Do something that you enjoy: Taking time to do something that you like can help you enjoy life more, and reduce your mood swings.
Share your feelings: Sometimes it can help to talk to your partner or even a professional counselor in order to get your feelings sorted out, and deal with anxieties.
Meditation: Connect with your body and clear your mind. Meditation can aid in relaxation and stress reduction.
Depression treatment: In some cases, it might be necessary to get depression treatment during pregnancy. If you feel that you are having difficulties deal with your mental health on your own, seek professional help.
Exercise: Following an approved exercise program during pregnancy can help you reduce your feelings of anxiety and depression. A healthy body can contribute to a healthy mind.
Eat right: Like exercise, proper nutrition also has mental health benefits. Make sure to follow the right healthy eating habits to improve your mood.
Educate yourself: Calm anxieties and find peace of mind by getting reliable information about pregnancy and what to expect.
Address small problems early on: Instead of waiting for small problems to become large, address them early so that anxiety is contained.

Skin Care

During pregnancy, some of the biggest concerns are about skin care. Here are some skin care tips for pregnancy:

Melasma: This is a darkening of the skin around the nose, cheeks and forehead that can look mask-like. You can wear sunscreen to help limit the effects.
Stretch marks: One of the most dreaded skin issues related to pregnancy is that of stretch marks. You keep your skin moisturized, as well as get proper nutrition to minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
Acne: The adolescent affliction of acne often returns during pregnancy. Speak with a professional if lots of water, good nutrition and pregnancy safe creams don’t get it under control.
Dry, itchy skin: You are likely to encounter dry, itchy skin during pregnancy. Moisturizer and even olive oil can help. You can also avoid hot water and soaps that dry out the skin.
Varicose veins: These unsightly blemishes can be annoying for some women. Regular exercise, vitamin C and some special tights can help reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Spider veins: Avoid crossing your legs, and increase vitamin C to help reduce the appearance of spider veins.
Red palms: You might end up with red palms. Sadly, there isn’t much you can do beyond waiting to give birth. But be aware of it. Sometimes moisturizer can ease itchiness.
Exfoliate: You can give your skin a healthy pregnancy glow by gently exfoliating daily.
Drink water: You can drink water to help ease a lot of skin problems. Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your skin elastic and smooth.

Makeup and Beauty

You want to feel like you look beautiful during your pregnancy. Here are some general makeup and beauty tips:

Avoid too much makeup: It can be tempting to cake it on, but try to avoid wearing too much makeup.
Concealer: Use this to hide the circles under your eyes.
Highlights: You can still add highlights or full hair color during pregnancy. You can even use “hair mascara” if you are concerned.
Shave your legs: This can help you feel sexy. However, you need to be careful about how you go about shaving your legs, and take precautions later in your pregnancy, since it can get tricky.
Solid colors: You can embrace your curves and keep things simple with solid colors. You can also find career maternity clothes that provide a professional look.
Posture: You can improve how you look by improving your posture.
Condition your hair: The nutrients your baby needs have to come from somewhere. You can use oils and special conditioners to help your hair. Also, avoid blow drying as much as possible.
Lip gloss: Apply lipstick or lip gloss to glamor up. You can even find lead free options meant for concerned pregnant women.
Pamper yourself: When you are pampered and well-rested, you are more likely to naturally “glow” with beauty. There are natural ways to safely pamper yourself during pregnancy.

Top 50 Blogs for Pregnant Working Moms

Miranda — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:19:33 +0000

These days, it is not uncommon for moms to work outside the home either part time or full time. However, being a working mother carries with it certain challenges. It can be extremely helpful for some working mothers to be able to connect with those who have similar interests and challenges, and even get a little career advice and help. Here are 50 blogs for pregnant working moms who want to connect:

General Pregnancy Blogs

Learn about pregnancy and the development of your baby. Learn what to expect, and how to cope with the situation. Also includes blogs on fertility, miscarriage and more.

Stirrup Queens: Learn more about the ups and downs of all things related to having babies.
A Little Pregnant: Follow the crazy adventures associated with pregnancy.
Serenity Now!: A blog about finding serenity during the craziness of pregnancy, fertility treatments and all things child-related.
Relaxing Doesn’t Make Babies: A look at attempts to get pregnant, and how to deal with being pregnant.
Babyfruit: This is a blog about pregnancy, and, specifically, miscarriage. However, it also goes through successful pregnancy and mothering.
How To Make a Family: An interesting blog about the business of baby-making.
Fit Pregnancy Blog: Learn to take better care of yourself — and your baby — during pregnancy.
Pregnancy & Baby Blog: Get an idea of your baby’s development, learn how to cope with pregnancy, and learn to care for your baby.

Childbirth Blogs

Learn more about childbirth and what to expect. Helpful information on having a helpful baby, and also information on breastfeeding and care for your baby.

Enjoy Birth: Provides you with helpful information on making childbirth a more enjoyable experience.
Bellies and Babies: Learn about having babies, issues in childbirth and how to make the most of your mothering experience.
Childbirth Today: This is a good look at modern childbirth and how you can approach it in a healthier way.
Natural Childbirth & Baby Care: Tips for having a natural childbirth and for taking care of your baby in a more natural manner.
A Much Better Blog: Focuses on childbirth and caring for children in a more sustainable way.
Breastfeeding Mums: Learn more about breastfeeding, and how it can benefit you and your child.
WorkAndPump: This is a great site about milk production and more for working mothers who need to pump.
The Working Cow: Another place to find focus on working while caring for an infant.

Working Mom Blogs

Once you have the baby, you become a working mom (or maybe you already are and are on your second or third child). It can be helpful to get tips, information and connect to other moms who work.

Not Just a Working Mom: Explores the lifestyle of a working mom who wants to actually have her own life in between all of her responsibilities.
Work It: This blog aimed at working mothers can help you learn to balance work and being a mom.
The Intrepid Mompreneur: Chronicles the efforts of a mom who starts businesses and writes books. Oh, and she’s divorced and paying alimony.
BellyItch: This mompreneur works from home and writes about it, along with a healthy helping of celebrity mom gossip.
Wonderbelly: Another great blog from a work at home mom (WAHM).
Another Working Mom: A blog about raising kids while you work.
STLWorkingMom: This is aimed at working moms in St. Louis, but the advice and help applies to working moms just about everywhere.
The Juggle: The Wall Street Journal offers a blog, offered by Sue Shellenbarger, on juggling work and family.
Crazy Working Mom: Follow the adventures of a mom as she attempts to keep her sanity as she balances kids and work.

Mom Blogs with Attitude

Not all moms are sugar sweet. Indeed, many of them are quite feisty. Get a little dose of motherhood served with attitude.

Dooce: This is the blog that made mommyblogging a household name. Unconventional look at the life of a mother.
Queen of Spain: This politically active mom has attitude and then some. Also, read about her ongoing health problems as she attempts to raise a family.
Motherhood Uncensored: Get down to the nitty gritty of everyday motherhood.
Baby Bunching: A blog my moms who are bunching their babies up and telling it like it is.
Two Moms Make a Baby: This is an interesting and unconventional blog about a same-sex couple and their journey to having a baby.
Suburban Turmoil: Get a full dose of feisty mothering reality on this blog that is open about the sometimes challenging way of life as a suburban mom.
MomGrind: This mother and professional blogger writes about issues facing society, women in general and mothers.
Crazy Bloggin’ Canuck: Get motherhood from a Canadian perspective. And enjoy the craziness that is being a mom.
City Mama: Get a taste of motherhood, city-style. Upfront and real, this mom offers a great deal of interesting information for your life, as well as for raising children.

Christian Mom Blogs

If you are concerned about your Christian sensibilities and raising children, you can get a different perspective on parenting and mothering.

A Homegrown Life: A look at motherhood from a conservative Christian point of view.
LA Moms Blog: This blog is written by a collection of moms in LA, many of them Christian and liberal.
A Day in the Life of MaMa: Get an inside look at raising children as a Christian. She’s a stay at home mom, but her insights are applicable to working moms.
Christian Working Mom: Provides insight into maintaining Christian values in your home, even while working outside it. Also includes an online Bible study.
Christian Work at Home Moms: If you work from home and are a Christian mother, this blog can help you learn helpful tips and hints and improve your mothering abilities.
Desperately Seeking Sanity: The adventures of a Christian mom who is single, and looking.
Pregnant Women and Babies: Written from a Christian perspective, this blog is about pregnancy and having children.
MomSense: This is the blog about mothering from Christianity Today. A modern look at Christian child-rearing.

Career Blogs

Get some help with your career from these helpful and interesting blogs.

Work It, Mom!: This blog helps you navigate the challenges of developing your career while being a mom.
Jobs and Moms: This career center can help you get tips and tools to excel in your career.
Career Woman Blog: Unlock your potential in your career, even while fulfilling other responsibilities and woman roles.
Be Gutsy Blog: This is a blog focusing on women in the workplace. It also offers a job board for women, and focuses on women for hire.
Women’s Leadership: Gain inspiration from women leaders, and learn how to develop your own leadership skills.
SCORE Women’s Success Blog: Learn about starting your own business and succeeding.
Moms Home Biz Blog: All about starting a work from home business that can help you advance your career while taking care of children at home.
Personal Development for Smart People: This general personal and career development blog can help you get the skills you need to improve your career chances.