News: Daily Skimm: Fun like a Libra

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Daily Skimm: Fun like a Libra

"Puffling season"

— When baby puffins are thrown off cliffs in Iceland to help them fly into adulthood. Like cuffing season, but opposite.

Top Story

IVF

The Story

Frozen embryos may lead to a higher risk of hypertensive disorders.

What?

A new study found that in vitro fertilization (IVF) — under certain conditions — could lead to a "substantially higher risk" of pregnancy complications related to high blood pressure. Aka hypertensive disorders. The study looked at about 4.5 million women over three decades in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. And while the risk of hypertensive disorders during IVF was generally considered low, women who used frozen embryos were about 2-3% more at risk than those who used fresh embryos or conceived naturally. But when researchers adjusted for existing conditions, the risk factor skyrocketed. Women who used frozen embryos and were already dealing with high blood pressure and obesity reportedly saw a 74% increase in risk (age was apparently also a factor). Important to note: hypertensive disorders can put the mom and baby in danger, during pregnancy and even after delivery. But there's good news…

Tell me.

Experts say "most IVF pregnancies are healthy and uncomplicated." High blood pressure is also both preventable and treatable. Doctors say the study highlights the need to weigh all the risks that come with IVF. And for both patients and doctors to be especially on alert for symptoms. The report could not answer why frozen embryos have a higher risk of pregnancy complications. But said that future research should look into it.

theSkimm

IVF is just one of the many options women can take in their fertility journey. It normally involves emotional, physical, and costly decisions. And being aware of the risks can help people prepare.

Related Stories

And Also...This

Who's nyet planning on coming back anytime soon…

Edward Snowden. Yesterday, Russian President Vladimir Putin granted the former National Security Agency contractor (turned self-proclaimed whistleblower) Russian citizenship. Reminder: back in 2013, Snowden was granted asylum in Russia after leaking hundreds of thousands of classified docs that exposed the NSA's massive phone data collection program. Two years ago, he was granted permanent residency in Russia. Now, Moscow has granted him and 75 other foreign nationals citizenship.

An ongoing case: Snowden still faces espionage charges in the US over the leak. And in the past, Putin has refused to extradite him. Snowden could face up to 30 years in prison if he returns.

Who's calling for accountability…

Some UN countries. Yesterday, the US and countries like Sweden, Canada, and Denmark called on the UN Human Rights Council to debate China's treatment of its Uyghur population. Saying the UN "must not, cannot, stay silent." Since 2017, the Chinese gov has detained more than 1 million Uyghurs and other ethnic minority groups in the northwest Xinjiang region. And has reportedly kept them in forced labor camps and forcibly sterilized women. The call to action comes a month after the UN released a long-awaited report accusing China of committing human rights violations. The debate apparently needs to be approved by a majority vote in order to happen next year. It would be the first time that alleged human rights abuses in China would appear on the UN's agenda. But China is also one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council — meaning, it has veto power, including over resolutions to suspend or expel members for human rights abuses.

What's roaring...

The Dow. Yesterday, it became the last big US stock index to fall into a bear market. Think: when prices drop (usually at least 20% from a recent high) for a sustained period of time, and investors get nervous. Its tumble is adding to concerns about a potential global recession.

Who did a 'lightsaber' drop...

James Earl Jones.

What's rocking our world…

NASA's crashing spacecraft.

What we could all use a bit more of...

Good news.

Fall Festivities

Together with

ICYMI the autumnal equinox rolled through last week. While you pack your schedule with apple-picking trips and bust your fave scarf back out, keep some new — and repeat — trends in mind. Because this year, chunky shoes, bold prints, cardigans, and oversized jeans are all very "in."

Need some help revamping your wardrobe accordingly? Stitch Fix has you covered. They've got outfits for every fall function on your list. And their stylists will curate the best ones just for you. PS: There's no subscription needed. *Slips on clogs and orders PSL.*

Seriously Smart Home

Together with

If you've ever panicked about leaving your curling iron or straightener on, you'll be happy to know smart plugs exist. They make it possible to turn appliances off with your phone. Even after you've left home. Psst…we teamed up with ADT to show you some seriously cool gadgets that'll make the smart home of your dreams. And break down the tech that makes it all work. Come on in.

Skimm Picks

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. The key to longer, faster-growing hair. This physician-formulated hair growth supplement addresses root causes of thinning. The natural, medical-grade ingredients work overtime to give you visibly thicker, stronger hair. Oh, and Skimm'rs get $15 off their first subscription month with code SKIMM15.*

2. Joe Jonas-launched bevs you'll wanna bring to every event. These canned sangrias pack the fall fun. With grab-and-go pours of red and white varieties that pair perfectly with crisp autumn air. Skimm'rs get eight free cans and free shipping, btw. Sangri-yay.*

3. Versatile boots that belong in your closet. This brand's new Everyday Ankle Booties are chic, comfy, and sustainably made. With a leg-complementing low-cut front you can dress up or down. PS: Use code SKIMMBOOTS for 20% off your first purchase.*

4. A celeb-loved soap brand with over 50K five-star reviews. These TikTok-famous refillable hand soap bottles come in five extremely cute designs. Celebrate the start of fall by snagging some cozy new scents, like Maple Pumpkin and Vanilla Chai. PS: Skimm'rs get 15% off.*

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

Let's hear it for…April W (TN). 15 years after graduating from Ohio University, she's being recognized for excelling in her career and giving back to her school and community. Oh, we're proud alright.

(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Wes Benzon (IL), Meghan Otis (IL), Michael Castleman (PA), Eileen Cooper (FL), Karen Siemer (MO), Ashley Stephenson (MD), Brit Kelleher (CA), Shaelyn Thomas (CA), Alison Van Heel (MN), Bridget Wheeler (PA), Becca Schild (NJ)

PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Save Your Seat: Book'd with Kelly Ripa

Ever wonder if these books could talk? Same. But at least their authors can. On Thursday, October 6 at 7:30pm ET join us for Skimm Reads: Book'd with Kelly Ripa— our spin on book club, where we'll discuss all the behind-the-pages secrets about your fave books from the authors themselves. First up: Kelly Ripa talking about her new collection of essays, "Live Wire." (And when you register, you'll get a copy of the book.) RSVP now.

Skimm'd by Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Xian Chiang-Waren, and Mariza Smajlaj