Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), a test for birth defects, carries the same risk as the more commonly used amniocentesis, a new study has shown. Doctors previously thought its risk to be greater. Women can undergo CVS about six weeks earlier than amniocentesis, at 10 to 12 weeks gestation, so these findings, if confirmed, will be […]
FamilyRoutes is a new online community for families offering free, unlimited blogging and photo sharing as well as a host of other great features. Samantha Fein, one of the founders (and a mom herself), explains the company’s vision: “Each of us has many dimensions, not just parenthood or our work life. This service is about
Having a pre-schooler, I don’t write about teens as often as perhaps I should. Here’s one item, however, that caught my eye: A long-term study of high school seniors’ educational and occupational plans found a widening gap between goals and actual achievements. Ambition can be good for some, the researchers say, but can also lead
Today is the National Day of Remembrance of Hurricane Katrina. Despite an outpouring of public support last year (in the face of what most agree were monumental government snafus), many Gulf Coast residents are still struggling to rebuild their lives. For stories of how LGBT residents of New Orleans are doing so, take a look
Last week, researchers announced the discovery of a genetic variant that may help identify women at higher risk of having premature births. This would allow doctors to take appropriate measures to minimize the risk. The scientists also found that African-American babies were three times more likely than those of European descent to carry this genetic
Tonight, USA Network will broadcast live the ceremony to rename the National Tennis Center after Billie Jean King. The event will be hosted by CBS commentator Mary Carillo, who was honored at this year’s Gay Games “for her honest portrayal of GLBT athletes.” If your kids are old enough to understand, watch the ceremony with
A quick follow up to one item from last Friday’s Weekly Political Roundup: The Alabama Democratic Party reinstated out lesbian Patricia Todd as its candidate for the state legislature, after disqualifying both her and her opponent for failing to file election forms in time. This means Todd will almost certainly become the first out legislator
It’s Women’s Equality Day, marking the ratification of the U. S. Constitution’s 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. Don’t forget to exercise that right this fall. Still a lot of other inequalities to work on . . . .
A lengthy roundup this week, so I’ll put most of it after the jump. Read on for news about Alabama, Arizona, California, and Washington, as well as Australia, Canada, South Africa, and Sweden.
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved over-the-counter purchase of the Plan B emergency- contraception pill for women 18 and older, and men purchasing for their partners. Girls 17 and under will still need prescriptions. Because of its dual status, Plan B will only be available at licensed pharmacies. (Nine states, however (Alaska,
