theSkimm - Pookie is looking absolutely fire today

Update location or View forecast

“There's no way to feel sad when you know you're this blessed”

— Margot Robbie on the Oscars snub. That's one positive Barbie.

Top Story

Heavily pregnant female sitting by window, holding her bump with both hands.

Preterm Births

The Story

The rate of preterm births in the US is rising.

Tell me more.

Yesterday, the CDC released new data showing the percentage of babies delivered preterm (before 37 weeks) jumped to nearly 8.7% in 2022. The 12% increase from 2014 represents hundreds of thousands of babies each year and poses a threat: Preterm birth is the leading cause of death and health conditions for infants and children. The study also found Black mothers were almost twice as likely as white mothers to give birth early.

Why is this happening?

It’s not always clear — but experts say giving birth later in life can raise risks. It comes as about one in five women in the US are having their first child after age 35. One expert also reportedly pointed to obesity as a potential factor in rising rates. Obesity doesn’t cause early births but complications associated with it, like preeclampsia, can. Stress can also play a role, and it’s possible other environmental factors can, too. Experts suggest pregnant people should see their doctor sooner if they’re experiencing headaches, changes in urination, and increased blood pressure.

theSkimm

The US already has the worst maternal mortality rate of any developed nation. Now, this latest report points to another challenge some new mothers face as more than two million live in counties without access to maternity care.

Related Stories:

And Also...This

Who was all over Congress’s FYP…

Big tech CEOs. Yesterday, the Senate Judiciary Committee pelted social media CEOs with questions on the safety of their platforms. Social media use among teens has been tied to depression, cyberbullying, and drug use. In the line of fire: Meta, TikTok, X, Discord, and Snap. Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg faced some of the most intense scrutiny, with Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) saying Zuckerberg has “blood on [his] hands.” At one point, Zuckerberg apologized to families in the room whose children have been harmed by social media. TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew fielded questions about the app’s connection to China. Still, Congress hasn’t passed meaningful legislation to address concerns over social media safety. By the end of the hearing, only two (Snap and X) of the CEOs said they support the Kids Online Safety Act. The others reportedly said they couldn’t back the act due to free speech concerns.

…Oh and speaking of social media, Universal Music Group is cutting ties with TikTok, which means songs from popular artists like Drake and Taylor Swift will be pulled from the app. Were you silent or were you silenced?

What could be coming…

A child tax credit. Yesterday, the House voted 357 to 70 to pass a $78 billion bipartisan tax package that would temporarily expand the child tax credit. As it stands, families can get up to a $2,000 tax credit for each child, but some families with little to no income don't qualify for the full amount. The new proposal would adjust rates for inflation, reportedly bringing up the credit to $2,100 per child by 2025. Analysts say the payments could help pull nearly half a million children out of poverty and cut poverty for 5 million or more. Many families use the extra cash for food, child care, and to cover other basic expenses. Up next: The bill faces an uncertain fate in the Senate.

What the FCC won’t let be…

AI robocalls. Yesterday, the Federal Communications Commission said it was working to make AI-cloned voice calls illegal. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act already bars robocalls but that left some wiggle room on whether that included AI-cloned voices. This proposed FCC rule would change that. It comes after New Hampshire voters received robocalls last week using an AI-generated voice of President Biden. The call encouraged people not to vote in the primary. Now, the FCC’s proposed rule could make it easier to go after people who use robocalls with AI-cloned voices in particular.

What’s not saying ‘new year, new me’...

Interest rates. Yesterday, the Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates at current levels between 5.25% and 5.5% amid the ongoing fight against inflation. That means the borrowing cost on things like credit cards and personal loans is still high. But some relief could be on the way: The Fed could start cutting interest rates next month. Timber.

PS: If inflation has your wallet or credit card hurting, we have tips to bring your debt down.

Who’s feeling *NSYNC with his boys…

Justin Timberlake.

What’s all the rage among penguins…

Microsleeps.

While “Abbott Elementary” promises a new Ava…

Many are apparently questioning Emily Mariko’s totes.

Thing to Know

Together with

60%

The percentage of mothers who don’t breastfeed as long as they intend to. Reasons range from difficulty with latch and supply to unsupportive work policies.

Translation: Breastfeeding isn’t a walk in the park. Other reasons parents can’t always meet their breastfeeding goals? A lack of accessible clinical care and insufficient health plan coverage, just to name a few. That’s where The Lactation Network comes in. It’s the largest network of International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants in the US. They provide insurance-covered support ranging from breast pumps to expert-led, in-person, individualized lactation consultations. Head here to learn more.

Skimm Picks

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

1. Six short stories to make you swoon this Valentine’s Day.

This collection is chock-full of improbable meet-cutes that will make any hopeless — and hopeful — romantic smile. Break out the candy hearts, and read or listen for free with Amazon Prime or Kindle Unlimited.*

Read on

2. Size-inclusive swimwear that’s worth every five-star review.

One reviewer called these cult-fave suits “the most comfortable swimsuit” they’ve ever worn. Whether you want bust support, backside coverage, or something maternity-friendly, they’ve got it. Psst…use SKIMMER20 for a discount.*

Get 20% off

3. Why fashion’s godmother thinks being nice is underrated.

In our latest episode of “9 to 5ish,” sponsored by the new movie “Scrambled,” we get a behind-the-scenes look at how Fern Mallis — founder of New York Fashion Week and former design exec — built her legendary career.*

Tune in

4. If you're looking to buy your first sex toy, start here.

The Squish has a soft, skin-like feel and fits in the palm of your hand. Our editors tested it in the name of science. You're welcome.

Check it out

Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).

On Our Vision Board

Feeling like you have everything to wear. These tips and recs will help anyone looking to refresh their style and beauty routine this new year.

THESKIMM BETA

We're building a tool to help you cross off the to-dos keeping you up at night. Meet theSkimm Beta, a space where you can learn how to manage your debt and get more pleasure. Check it out.

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.

Feeling homey…Alexis T (UT). She recently launched Zest Kitchen and Home with her husband. They help people celebrate everyday activities from cooking to decorating.

(Some) Birthdays…Rachael Durant (MA), Maria Barry (AZ), Sarah Ferguson-Brown (FL), Mary Cherif (NY), Rachael Livingston (OR), Rachel Twardowski (IL), Casey Smith (OH), Michelle Smith (IL), Jess Downey (SC), Kelli Dawson (ID), Kelsey Stewart (TX), Amy Friederich (MO), Rosandi Valdez (NJ), Nina Udeshi ( VA), Jen Page (NY)

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