March 2011

Agricultural Chemicals Affect Male Fertility

For couples struggling to conceive, the focus in treatment often lies with the woman. But if you live in an area with a strong agricultural presence, take note: agricultural chemicals affect sperm count and motility. In 2002, Shanna Swan, a professor of family and community medicine at the University of Missouri, announced findings suggesting that…

Morning Sickness: Is it Inevitable?

Marilyn Shannon doesn’t think so. The author of CCL’s popular book, Fertility, Cycles & Nutrition, has found many common sense self-care strategies that can help reduce morning sickness, drawing from medical research, her counseling experience, and her understanding of human physiology. She has recently updated her booklet Managing Morning Sickness from the ground up, and…

Nashville Conference Promises to Spur Interest in NFP

My wife, Karen, and I had a wonderful time attending a conference this past weekend in Nashville. “Love & Life in the Divine Plan” was a one-day examination of the U.S. bishops’ recently pastoral letter on marriage (of the same name) and was hosted by the Ruth Institute and Aquinas College ( a local college…