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A nasal spray reaches a woman's brain differently depending on the week, and it may explain why a promising brain drug looked like a failure

A new study found that intranasal davunetide reaches the brain in higher amounts in female mice when estrogen peaks, with similar results seen in healthy adults. The findings suggest earlier trials mixing males and females may have obscured the true effects of the drug.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2026
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Natural ovulation as effective as hormones before IVF embryo transfer

A clinical trial found that natural ovulation before frozen embryo transfer is as effective as hormone treatment in achieving a healthy baby by IVF, with a lower risk of maternal complications. The study involved 4,376 ovulatory women and showed similar outcomes for birth weight and newborn complications.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 21, 2026

Why this little-known birth control option deserves more attention

A new study found that only a quarter of reproductive health experts prescribe self-administered injectable contraceptives, despite its safety and effectiveness. The study identified barriers such as concerns about patient ability, medication availability, and lack of standardized counseling approaches.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 8, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Mild breast tenderness and a little swelling before flow are expected in healthy ovulatory cycles

A one-year study of 53 healthy women with regular ovulatory cycles found that mild breast tenderness and swelling before menstruation are common and expected. The study suggests that these symptoms may occur more frequently during normal ovulation than previously thought, contradicting previous assumptions about premenstrual syndrome.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 27, 2025

Researchers discover new hormone that stimulates ovulation in zebrafish

A team of international researchers has identified secretoneurin as a critical hormone that stimulates ovulation in zebrafish. The study's findings have significant implications for fertility research and conservation, with potential applications in aquaculture and infertility treatments.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2025

Fertility tracking has increased in some states post-Dobbs

A new study found that fertility-tracking technology use increased in some US states after the Dobbs decision, with more women using apps for pregnancy prevention rather than planning. The study suggests a need for education on tech's reliability and implications for user data security.

SourceOhio State University·JournalContraception·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Could the contraceptive pill reduce risk of ovarian cancer?

Researchers found that women who had used the oral contraceptive pill had a lower risk of ovarian cancer, with a 39% reduced risk for those who had given birth to two or more children. The study also identified certain biomarkers and lifestyle factors associated with a lower risk of ovarian cancer, including lower body weight and short...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecological Cancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2025

Menstrual cycle luteal phase lengths are not 'fixed' at 13-14 days

Research reveals menstrual cycle luteal phase lengths can vary significantly, even in healthy women, and may impact fertility. The study found that only 11% of participants had normally ovulatory cycles throughout the year, while 55% experienced short luteal phases.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 7, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Does fertility affect a woman’s body odor?

Researchers analyzed underarm odour samples from 29 women over a menstrual cycle, finding no evidence that men prefer fertile days. Chemical analysis also showed no correlation between odour composition and fertility status.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024

Menstrual cramps can be worse in normal-length cycles without ovulation

Researchers found that menstrual cramps were more severe and lasted longer in cycles without ovulation, challenging the long-held belief that cramps only occur during ovulatory cycles. The study of 75 women aged 19-35 showed that cycle lengths were the same, but anovulatory cycles had higher Cramp Scores

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Pain Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2024

A third of trans masculine individuals on testosterone ovulate

A third of trans masculine individuals taking testosterone are found to ovulate, according to a study from Amsterdam UMC's Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria. This discovery emphasizes the importance of birth control measures and comprehensive care for trans men who may experience unplanned pregnancy.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2024

Gene expression atlas captures where ovulation can go awry

A gene expression atlas has been developed to map the complex cellular and molecular interactions that drive ovulation in mice. The findings reveal a previously unknown layer of selection that determines which follicles will release eggs, and highlight the importance of early differentiation markers for fertility management.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2024

Brain cell discovery sparks hope for fertility treatments

Researchers found that kisspeptin neurons with dynorphin receptors are crucial for hormone secretion and ovulation. The study provides new insights into the central mechanism underlying reproduction and may lead to treatment of ovarian disorders.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Study shows exposure to household chemicals can lower odds of getting pregnant

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to phthalates can lower the odds of getting pregnant, but not lead to pregnancy loss. The researchers also discovered associations between preconception phthalate exposure and changes in women's reproductive hormones, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2023

Wearable patch wirelessly monitors estrogen in sweat

Researchers at Caltech developed a wearable sensor that detects estradiol levels in sweat, allowing for real-time monitoring of female hormones. The sensor can track changing estradiol levels throughout the reproductive cycle, providing valuable insights for fertility and hormone replacement therapy.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 28, 2023

Home-monitoring during IVF equally safe and successful

A recent study published in The Lancet found that home-monitoring during IVF is just as effective as hospital checks, with similar pregnancy rates and fewer complications. This approach also reduces costs by up to 80% and has numerous environmental benefits.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 30, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Cheap and safe hormone treatment shows promise for couples with unexplained infertility

A small study suggests that vaginal progesterone treatment can increase the chances of conception in couples with unexplained infertility. The treatment, which is safe and low-cost, showed more than double the birth rate among treated women, but further research is needed to confirm these results.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 26, 2023

Model suggests lowering hormone doses in contraceptives

A new computational model suggests that reducing hormone doses in contraceptives could effectively suppress ovulation. The model found that hormone doses could be lowered by up to 92% in estrogen-only contraceptives and 43% in progesterone-only contraceptives, while still preventing ovulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 13, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Timed intercourse for couples may increase pregnancy chances

A review suggests that women timing their intercourse with urine-based hormone tests can increase their chances of conceiving. The study found that timed intercourse resulted in a 20-28% chance of pregnancy, compared to 18% for spontaneous intercourse.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·TypeNews article·DateJul 5, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic stress impacts ovulation

Research presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting found that COVID-19 pandemic stress led to disturbed ovulation in many women. Nearly two-thirds of participants experienced short luteal phases or anovulation, indicating a significant impact on reproductive health.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 12, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

The birth of twins is not linked to women's fertility

A new analysis of over 100,000 births reveals that women with a high chance of having twins generally have reduced fertility. The study found that twin survival and increased pregnancies can compensate for reproductive aging, leading to higher total child numbers.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2022

New drug combo “promising candidate” for on-demand contraceptive pill

A new combination of ulipristal acetate and meloxicam has emerged as a promising candidate for an on-demand contraceptive pill. The study found that the combination disrupted ovulation in 89% of women, with treatment cycles being around 3 days longer than baseline cycles.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

UMass Amherst study examines associations between contraceptive methods and early menopause

A UMass Amherst study found associations between oral contraceptive use and certain tubal ligation methods with lower levels of antimüllerian hormone (AMH), a biomarker for ovarian aging. This may suggest an increased risk for early menopause in women who have used oral contraceptives or undergone specific types of tubal ligation.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMenopause·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Aging stiffens the blood vessels but their flexibility also fluctuates based on a woman’s hormone state

A study found that arterial stiffness increases with age, but hormonal fluctuations also play a role. Women's hormone levels, particularly estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, were associated with stiffer arteries, while older women had stiffer vessels regardless of hormone status.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateDec 10, 2021

PTSD symptoms vary over course of menstrual cycle

Researchers found that PTSD symptoms peak in women during the first few days of their menstrual cycle, when estradiol levels are low, and decrease near ovulation. This discovery could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatments for women with PTSD, who have been underrepresented in previous research.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Trauma Theory Research Practice and Policy·DateOct 28, 2021

Licking a Tootsie Roll® sensor to monitor health

A team of researchers has developed a low-cost and low-waste device that uses Tootsie Roll candy as an electrode to monitor ovulation status or kidney health. The sensor works by detecting changes in salt levels in saliva, with preliminary tests showing promising results.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 29, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

The three days pregnancy sickness is most likely to start pinpointed

Most women experience nausea and vomiting symptoms within a three-day timeframe after ovulation, according to a new study from the University of Warwick. This narrower time frame suggests that scientists may be able to identify a biological cause for the condition, previously thought to have psychological roots.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateJan 12, 2021

Origins of female orgasm and induced ovulation

Researchers propose female orgasm evolved from copulation-induced ovulation (CIO) in animals like rabbits. A study found that inhibiting CIO reduced ovulations in treated rabbits, supporting the hypothesis of a shared evolutionary origin.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

What do the red 'ornaments' of female macaques mean?

Researchers studied Japanese macaques to investigate the link between female coloration and attractiveness. Contrary to previous assumptions, dominant female macaques with darker hindquarters were found to have greater reproductive success.

SourceCNRS·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 19, 2019

Are fertility apps useful?

A study of 200,000 FAM app users found that digital self-tracking can provide valuable information for inferring underlying hormonal changes and ovulation timing. The analysis revealed patterns similar to those in small-scale clinical studies, with notable improvements in the duration and range of the follicular phase.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJul 16, 2019

A study in scarlet Japanese macaques

A team from Kyoto University's Primate Research Institute found that female red skin color acts as a 'badge' of their social status, not fertility. Female Japanese macaques with darker/redder hindquarters are of higher social rank.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 8, 2019

Brigham researchers develop smartphone-based ovulation test

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital developed an automated, low-cost tool to predict ovulation using AI-powered fern pattern detection. The device achieved over 99% accuracy in detecting ovulation and non-ovulation, offering a potential solution for family planning and fertility monitoring.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalLab on a Chip·DateDec 11, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Estrogen discovery could shed new light on fertility problems

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discover estrogen produced in brain is necessary for ovulation in monkeys, potentially revealing cause of infertility problems and pointing to new methods of birth control. The discovery challenges traditional understanding of hormonal cascade leading to egg release from ovaries.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 12, 2017

Does chronic inflammation contribute to PCOS?

The University of Illinois Chicago is conducting a $3 million study on inflammation's role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects one in seven women. The research aims to test whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug salsalate can improve ovarian function and reduce inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 10, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Yale researchers shed light on evolutionary mystery: Origins of the female orgasm

Researchers at Yale and Cincinnati Children's Hospital propose that the human female orgasm evolved to stimulate ovulation, a trait shared with many other placental mammals. The study suggests that female orgasm became superfluous for reproduction later in evolution, freeing it for secondary roles.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Zoology Part B Molecular and Developmental Evolution·DateAug 1, 2016

Female bonobos send mixed messages to males

A study of wild female bonobos found that their sexual swellings are unreliable signals of fertility, allowing females to manipulate mate choice. The findings suggest that male bonobos may not be able to successfully compete over females due to the variability in swelling patterns.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Deceptive sexual signals keep the peace in a bonobo society

Research found that female bonobos' unreliable sexual swellings make it difficult for males to time their mating efforts accurately. This may reduce aggressive mate competition and result in bonobo societies being more peaceful. The study advances understanding of the evolution of sexual signaling in our closest relatives.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJun 29, 2016
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

The successful ovulation of 100 eggs from 1 female mouse

Researchers developed an ultra-superovulation method to increase the number of eggs obtained from genetically modified mice, reducing the need for multiple females and improving efficiency in IVF and embryo transfers. The breakthrough could lead to a significant reduction in the number of experimental animals used in research.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 19, 2015

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit ovulation after just 10 days

Research reveals that NSAIDs can inhibit ovulation in women with mild musculoskeletal pain, affecting their ability to conceive. The study found that after just 10 days of treatment, progesterone levels decreased significantly across all treatment groups.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 11, 2015
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Insect and mammal ovulation more alike than not?

A study found that both fruit flies and mice exhibit similar cellular and genetic features during ovulation, including the degradation of follicle cells and the role of Matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp) enzymes. These similarities suggest a conserved basic mechanism in ovulation across animals.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 19, 2015

Study finds fertile women seek variety in men and consumer products

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that ovulating women are more likely to choose multiple partners and products due to their increased fertility. This results in a greater variety seeking mindset, leading to a desire for new options in both personal relationships and consumer choices.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 16, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Reproductive tract secretions elicit ovulation

Researchers have found that secretions from the reproductive tract contribute to both ovulation and sperm function, and that a specific hormone receptor gene controls this process. The study suggests that a similar mechanism may exist in mammals, providing new insights into the mechanisms of ovulation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateApr 17, 2013