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Abortion About 14 days after conception, a fertilized egg (zygote) attaches itself to the wall of the uterus. At this point, the developing baby is called an embryo. After 8 weeks, it is called a fetus. Somewhere between 20 to 28 weeks, the fetus becomes viable -- that is, mature enough that it might survive on its own outside the uterus. An abortion occurs when a pregnancy is terminated after the zygote attaches to the uterus, but before the fetus is viable. If an abortion occurs naturally, it is called a miscarriage. If an abortion is induced for a good reason, it is called a therapeutic abortion. One of the volatile questions of our age is when, if ever, should it be allowable to induce an abortion? The arguments are important because they go to the heart of what it means to be human and to be alive. In addition, in many countries, therapeutic abortion is a significant political and religious issue. Clearly, this is a problem that the human race is going to have to sort out over a period of years. In the meantime, you can follow the discussions, learn more about the issues, and voice your opinion. Web:
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Disgruntled Housewife I love this site and you will too. The writing is excellent, the content is fascinating, and the wit is sharp. Disgruntled Housewife is one woman's "guide to modern living and intersex relationships". But to say Disgruntled Housewife is merely a guide is like saying Martha Stewart is merely a housewife. The talent, the effort and the hubris are both inspiring and engaging. Martha may embrace the art and science of homemaking, but only Disgruntled Housewife is courageous enough to take on the rest of the world. Web:
Feminism Modern feminism as a social movement began to grow from the civil rights and peace movements in 1967-1968. The basic idea is that men and women should be treated as economic, social and political equals. Today, radical feminists still support the movement with awe and pride, while other, more fashionably conservative women talk about feminism between clenched teeth and tight lips. In the middle is the large group of women and men who contemplate feminism and gender from a thoughtful, neutral point of view. Whatever your personal beliefs, you are welcome to join the mailing list. Remember, though, it is not a battleground to prove whether feminism is inherently good or evil. It is a place for thoughtful folk to share information on women, politics and economics. Web:
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Feminism Talk and General Discussion If it weren't for feminists, men wouldn't have anything to grumble about except the President's Address to the Nation interrupting the football game. It's been proven through history that women are good at organizing themselves and getting things done, and they've shown it once again in Usenet. Join one or all of these groups and discuss feminism in all its forms. Usenet:
Gender and Computing For the longest time, computers have been "a guy thing". Why is that? Read articles put up by Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility that cover topics such as women in computer science, feminism, and cross-gender communication. Web:
Gender and Sexuality There's no escaping it. Gender and sexuality issues run rampant among the population, spurring arguments, thought-provoking discussion and philosophical meanderings. Read articles and papers about gender and sexuality, and explore other feminist resources available at this site. Web:
Gynecological Exams Gynecology is the branch of medicine that deals with the female reproductive system and its interaction with the rest of the body. Having a regular gynecological examination is important for your long-term health. Moreover, you should have a gynecologist who knows you, so if a problem arises, you will have someone to see. However, if you've never been to a gynecologist before, you may be anxious. These Web sites contain information to help you. Read an overview of an exam, so you will know what to expect and how to prepare. There are also hints on how to find a doctor, as well as a glossary and a reading list. Web:
History of Women's Suffrage Looking back at history, it is obvious that the more women are involved in government, the better everything works. But it took the world a long time to figure that out. In 1848, a group of American women adopted a resolution, referred to today as the Seneca Falls Declaration, in which they declared their support for political equality and called for universal suffrage (the right for both men and women to vote). But it was not until 1920 that the United States passed into law the 19th Amendment to the constitution: "The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex." The history of the suffrage movement is characterized by bravery, persistence and foresight. It is important for all of us to learn about the suffragettes and their accomplishments. When we reflect that, today, there are still many countries where women are denied basic political rights, it is clear that the work of the original suffragettes is still unfinished. Web:
Midwifery You just never know when it's going to happen. You'll be stuck in an elevator or on the subway with a pregnant woman in labor. What will you do then? Plan ahead and get some information on midwifery so you will always be prepared. Articles, information on organizations, and links to other resources are a few of the things that are available. Web:
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National Organization for Women The National Organization for Women (NOW) is a U.S. political organization dedicated to women's rights and feminist philosophy. NOW was established on June 30, 1966, and since that time has evolved and reinvented itself more than once. The NOW Web site has information regarding violence against women, lesbian rights, women-friendly workplaces, affirmative action, abortion, global feminism, economic equality, and so on. Web: Notable Women History tends to be written by the people in charge, and for most of history, the people in charge have been men. There have been a great many important and accomplished women, but it can often be difficult to track down information about them. These resources will help you learn about many of the most notable women who ever lived. Web:
Rape and Sexual Assault Rape refers to having sexual intercourse by force, intimidation, or without legal consent. The term "sexual assault" encompasses rape as well as other sexual crimes, including abuse. Rape and sexual assault have been a major problem in every society in history. If you have been raped, or you want to learn how to prevent such assaults, you will find resources here to help you. In particular, you can find a place to call if you need immediate help. If you like to argue politics, please remember that rape is a volatile subject, and you are going to encounter a lot of exaggerated and inaccurate information of all types. Web:
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Voices of Women This is a marvelous archive of stories and articles by women. There are many different topics, so no matter what you feel like at the moment, I bet you'll find something you want to read. Web: Women in Congress Women have been running homes for years, so they might as well run the House, too. Learn about the women in Congress by reading their online biographies. Web:
Women's Online Communities Here are hip, comfortable places for you to hang out on the Net. You can chat with other people or read -- and there is a lot to read. There are articles about many different topics, all of interest to the inquiring female mind. Once you get started at these sites, you might have trouble getting your work done. There are too many informative, fun, bite-sized things to enjoy. Web:
Women's Resources There are an enormous number of resources on the Net related to women and women's issues: discussion forums, women's organizations, health, family, poetry and writing, feminism, spirituality and education. You'll also find many Web sites created by and for women. Web:
Women's Studies Women's Studies is a general term, referring to the organized study of culture and history from a woman's perspective. There are a great many academic Women's Studies programs, and they vary enormously. If you are interested in this area for research or study, you'll find a large variety of resources on the Net. Web:
Women's Talk and General Discussion Women: there is a place for you to go to talk with other women about anything you want. The mailing list offers a nice women's space to discuss your personal observations, interests, news, upcoming events and anything else that is relevant to your daily life. If you don't mind anyone jumping into the conversation, try the Usenet group. Web:
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