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25 Target Items To Help Make Pregnancy A Little Easier

25 Target Items To Help Make Pregnancy A Little Easier

Buzz Feed09-05-2025

A soft, wire-free bra that provides *just* the right amount of support when your breasts get achy and feel like they'll never stop growing. It also doubles as a nursing bra postpartum. I've been wearing it since week 10 and don't plan on stopping until well after pregnancy.
Promising review: "This is hands-down, my favorite nursing bra ever! Cute, supportive, comfy and so easy to nurse. I got it in pink first and then black because I had to have another! I am usually a size large, but I got the large busty because I wanted the cups a little bigger/more coverage." —Mel Price: $40.99 (available in sizes S–XL, including busty fits, and two colors)
A pair of nausea relief wristbands that will become your first trimester BFF because they're actually effective at reducing (ok, not eliminating) pregnancy sickness and are comfortable enough to sleep in, so you won't feel like you're on a rocking ship all night.
Promising review: "Complete game changer for me at 9 weeks pregnant. Prior to these, I was throwing up at least once a day and was nauseous/queasy/miserable for most of the day. I noticed an instant improvement when wearing the sea bands. Highly recommend." —ShanayPrice: $10.99
A deep-tissue massage gun small enough to bring to the office, on your babymoon (it's TSA-approved), or to the couch while you watch TV. It's a hero for releasing knots in your back, shoulders, feet... especially when you can enlist someone else to work into those especially hard-to-reach spots.
Promising review: "Originally had a cheaper massage gun that broke and decided to replace with this one! Super high quality and works great! Gave it 4 stars as I wish the battery lasted longer." —KatPrice: $239 (originally $299.99)
A soft, cooling, and flexible pregnancy pillow that won't take over your entire bed and accommodates your favorite sleeping positions. If you're forced to learn to be a side sleeper, you'll need help, and this pillow is there for you.
I've been using this pillow since the first trimester, and I don't know how I got any sleep before it came into my life. Promising review: "4th pregnancy and 26 weeks. Between chiro and PT, my pains were minimal to none up until recently. I quickly realized the new intense low back pains and pelvic floor pains were caused by the lack of support when lying down. I did buy another pregnancy pillow from Amazon but ended up being terrible due to quality. I didn't have high hopes for this pillow due to the mixed reviews, but it has SAVED ME! The very first night I realized I had no pains and none the next day as well! Absolutely worth a try." —KellyPrice: $49.99
Ginger drops that actually taste good! And are fortified with nausea-fighting powers so you can stop waiting around for your breakfast, lunch, snack, to make a reappearance.
Promising review: "In my first trimester (with my first baby), and this is the only thing that has immediately helped my symptoms. I really like the flavor, and felt these taste more like lemon with a little bit of spice from ginger. Pricey, but 100% worth it!" —VMayPrice: $12.49
A supportive belly band that can help hold up the bump so your back and hips don't have to do all the work. This one also has an adjustable above-the-belly strap you won't find on every pregnancy belt that fits, and lifts, bumps of all sizes.
Promising review: "This thing is convenient and Does the job to give more support to my growing be belly. It's nice and snug, however I find if I wear it too long it's too tight and I'm forced to take it off. I haven't found a good middle ground but I like having it around when. Needed." —BrittPrice: $23.96 (originally $28.96)
A pair of lightweight, breezy pajamas so night sweats won't keep you up at night when ALL YOU WANT is a few quality hours of rest. Everyone likes to warn you about how little sleep you'll get after giving birth, but plenty of aches and annoyances disrupt your sleep while baby's still inside. Don't let overheating be one of those! These light-as-air pajamas keep you cool and comfy all night long.
Promising review: "These pajamas are my absolute favorite. I buy a pair every spring. They are so soft and stylish. You won't be disappointed!" —JillPrice: $17.50 (originally $25; available in sizes XS–4XL and six colors)
A pair of cute compression socks that can help keep swelling in the ankles at bay and aren't impossible to get on and off (when the last thing you want to do is spend more time bending over, dealing with shoes and socks).
Promising review: "These were perfect for my needs. My medication gives me restless leg syndrome and the only thing I've found that helped was tight socks. I decided to get actual compression socks and these are perfect. They're relatively light compression so it's enough pressure to help but not so much that it makes it hard to wear overnight. If you need serious compression these aren't for you, but if you just need a little then they're perfect." —LilliPrice: $14
A large electric heating pad for help soothing sore muscles after waddling around with a human attached to your belly day after day. That is hard work!! And you deserve a little heated relief.
Promising review: "I am into my second year with this pad now. I find that it washes well on delicate cycle, although I have taken to filling the machine a little, hand agitating, spinning out, and repeating with the rinse cycle. I use a little Tide powder, and no bleach. The little tabs fit over a plastic hanger; line dry a couple of days. The controls on this are a step up from the digital controls. It does have an automatic shutoff; nice when you are tired. Have never had to use it past the second setting, usually the first is fine, with even and comforting heat. Will buy again should this ever fail!" —LRPrice: $42.99
A pair of practical and comfortable slip-on shoes so you can avoid bending down any more than is absolutely necessary. These things slide right on and off, no tying necessary, and the much-needed arch support feels like a dream.
Promising review: "Loved them so much getting a 2nd pair after a year and a half of wearing every day." —ScrunchymamabearPrice: $29.99 (available in sizes 6–11)
A shower chair so you can get off your aching feet and get a *tiny* bit closer to feeling like you're at a spa in your own bathroom. All that's missing is a fresh eucalyptus branch and fancy skincare products.
Taking a seat while you bathe is a total game-changer during pregnancy (and after). This chair is medical-grade, so it's sturdy and won't slip or wobble. My husband is just as excited about the chair as I am; pregnant or not, sometimes it's nice to have the option to pop a squat while you shampoo. Promising review: "Chair is a god-send made showering much easier and safer." —MermPrice: $32.49
A durable water bottle because staying hydrated is priority number one for both you and the tiny human inside your body. Carrying this with you ensures you always have something with you to sip on.
Promising review: "I only use Owala brand because of the option to sip or straw. Easy to clean, works well in the dishwasher for me. Keeps water cold, and with ice, cold for nearly 24 hours. Some lids do leak a bit after a while, but that's tolerable for me. Took this to Disney recently and used a lanyard + carabiner attached to the 'handle' so it can be worn over the shoulder." —JesPrice: $29.99 (available in eight colors)
A stylish bump-friendly dress you can wear during every trimester and post-partum moment without hating the clothes on your body. It's breezy, lightweight, and feels like a nightgown, but looks effortlessly put together.
Price: $19.20 (originally $32; available in sizes XS–XXL and two colors)
A sweet pregnancy journal to help you keep track of every milestone over these special nine months. Let's face it, you might not be loving every second while you smack dab in the middle of it but after it's over? You'll be glad you saved these memories.
Promising review: "Beautiful Journal for Mom! Has tabs for keepsakes! Reasonable price! Fast delivery!" —EviePrice: $22.99 (originally $29.99)
An everywhere balm if you want help hydrating and softening skin as it expands to accommodate your growing baby. Lather up daily (or twice a day, if you want!) to keep things supple and help combat the itch of your growing body.
Price: $12.29
A portable wedge pillow to pop between your knees, behind your lower back, and under your bum, whether you're in bed, in the car, or at the office. Things get achy the bigger you get, especially your joints and ligaments, so give them a touch of relief with a soft, supportive prop.
Promising review: "I've been using this pillow for about two months. I'm about halfway through my second trimester now, and I've tried two other pregnancy pillows that are larger and more expensive, and this is the only one that lets me sleep comfortably. I love it. It's very versatile—in addition to using it to support my bump when I lie on my side, sometimes I put it under my legs or hips so I can sleep comfortably on my back, between my knees when on my side, or behind my back on my side to provide some back support. I wish I'd bought this pillow at the very beginning of my pregnancy and not bothered with any others!" —CaitPrice: $19.89
A maternity swimsuit because summer is almost here and being pregnant on the beach should be as comfy and stylish as possible. The lattice tie-up back easily adjusts, so you can start wearing the suit as soon as the bump comes in and keep it through postpartum.
Promising review: "This swimsuit exceeded my expectations! The fit is perfect and the overall design makes me feel so confident and sexy in my growing body." —Happy MamaPrice: $40.79 (originally $50.99; available in sizes XS–XL and three colors)
An ultra-soft toothbrush because yes, even your gums get more sensitive when you're pregnant, and a gentle brush can make all the difference.
Promising review: "This is THE BEST toothbrush I've ever used! I've been using it since 2022 and will not use anything else ever again. This toothbrush is EXTRA soft so it's perfect for my sensitive teeth while I was pregnant, after birth or when I use whiting. It's absolutely gentle and the bristles are so thin, so it actually cleans really well in between the teeth. It's actually better than the regular tooth brushes out there. My husband was on a medical condition to where he had to take high dose of Prednisone (steroid) and made his teeth extremely sensitive, so this was the only toothbrush he could use without being in pain." —SandyPrice: $7.99
A life- (and thigh-) saving anti-chafe stick to smear here, there, and everywhere when the rub together gets real in the third trimester. Keep it in your purse and swipe this stick on your bra line, between your legs, and/or around your pits to save yourself the tell-tale shower sting.
Promising review: "Saves my thighs every time. I carry one stick in my purse and another in my gym bag because know I can rely on thigh babe anywhere. The thigh stick sets into the skin without a sticky or tacky residue (none at all actually) and prevents chafing. I do find myself having to reapply after a workout or a long day, but it's quite durable!" —HwaPrice: $12.19
A mineral sunscreen to keep you burn-free without any potentially harmful chemicals. This mineral, rather than chemical, 'screen has hundreds of 5-star reviews for a reason and is especially beloved by people with sensitive skin.
Promising review: "Definitely effective. I use it on my face everyday and my whole body when needed. It's not oily, I can't really feel it on my skin at all. There is no white cast (at least for my pale skin) . My only complaint is that the bottle leaks when I put it in my backpack or suitcase." —MPrice: $18.29
A stability ball that can help open your hips, challenge your core, and generally help you get (somewhat) ready push on the big day without a major workout routine (plus it's a comfy perch in the third trimester when every surface feels designed to torture your hips).
Promising review: "I used this for my pregnancy and it was perfect! It stays inflated for a long time and only needs to be reinflated every once in a while. Very sturdy and a great price for what it is." —AlexPrice: $12.79 (originally $15.99; available in three colors)
A perineal massage wand which can help make sure you're *actually* working the right muscles when stretching things out pre-labor. Anything that can help prevent tearing is worth a try!
Experts often recommend perineal massage to get ready to push without tearing – and while you can do it manually, reaching down there isn't exactly easy or comfortable with a third-trimester bump. This wand gives you better access and leverage, plus its curved shape gives you easy access to the right muscles. The included mirror is handy so you can see exactly what you're doing (the whole process is not as straightforward as it sounds). Price: $20.99
A pair of belly-covering underwear that offer support in all the right places without adding even more bulk under your clothes. Trust me, if you're not already at that point in pregnancy, you'll need a few extra pairs of undies to deal with the unexpected...ahem...surprises it brings.
Promising review: "If you are in the market for some over-the-stomach maternity underwear, these are the ones to use! My last pregnancy I used a cotton one from amazon and they worked alright but I love how fitting these are and they're super thin and not bulky. I love their regular Ribbed Bikini Underwear so I was happy to see they also offered maternity and they do not disappoint!!! A little pricey but well worth the cost :) The ones I have already have held up incredibly well and are so comfortable!! I wear a size 18 pant and XL fit me perfectly - if that helps!!!" —KymberlyPrice: $15 (available in two colors)
And a pair of over-the-belly jeans that look like your pre-pregnancy jeans but fit like sweats because you're not going to want to wear much else by month six.
Promising review: "I never leave reviews for Target products but these are the best and most affordable pregnancy jeans I have tried yet! The other jeans Target typically has in stores are a very restrictive skinny fit that I find so uncomfortable. These have the perfect amount of looseness to them while still giving some shape. I'm tall, 6'0 and thin/athletic, pre-pregnancy I wore a size 4 or 6, I ordered this in both a 4 and 6 and decided to keep the 6. Both jeans fit but I'm carrying pretty low in my belly and it felt like the 6 would be more comfortable as I'm entering my last trimester." —MTmtnmamaPrice: $21 (available in sizes 00–17 and two colors)
Some witch hazel pads you'll be so glad to have if and when third-trimester hemmies strike. Plus, hundreds of reviewers say they're a must for post-partum relief!
Promising review: "I loved that it helped alleviate the pain and swelling of hemorrhoids. Until I was able to speak to my doctor and get a prescription, this got me through the weekend. Has a cooling effect and pads are moist and easy to use/dispose." —RaqUrWorldPrice: $9.99

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3D Printing Technology Revolutionizes Breast Implants Industry - A $4.6 Billion Market by 2030
3D Printing Technology Revolutionizes Breast Implants Industry - A $4.6 Billion Market by 2030

Yahoo

timean hour ago

  • Yahoo

3D Printing Technology Revolutionizes Breast Implants Industry - A $4.6 Billion Market by 2030

Key players like Johnson & Johnson and Establishment Labs are driving innovation with FDA-approved products. Silicone implants lead the market due to their natural feel. North America dominates in market share, fueled by high awareness and cosmetic spending. Innovative trends like 3D printing are reshaping the industry. Breast Implants Market Dublin, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Breast Implants Market - Focused Insights 2025-2030" report has been added to Breast Implants Market was valued at USD 2.98 Billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 4.60 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 7.5%. The global breast implants market is set to grow due to the growing popularity of anatomical breast implants and generation-to-generation development in breast implants. KEY TAKEAWAYS By Product: The silicone breast implants segment holds the largest market share, as they are highly popular for offering a natural look and feel while maintaining shape even if ruptured. By Shape: The round shape segment shows the highest of 7.70%, as they are the most preferred breast implant shape category because they offer a fuller size across the breast area and limit the rotation of implants. By Surface: In 2024, the smooth surface segment accounted for the largest market share. Smooth surface breast implants are widely used for their natural feel and movement, enhancing effectiveness and reducing the need for repeat surgeries. By Application: The breast augmentation segment accounted for the largest market share. Breast augmentation is a top cosmetic surgery worldwide, with rising demand due to cosmetic and medical needs. By End-User: The cosmetology clinics segment holds the second largest market share of over 34%, driven by specialized, well-trained, well-experienced, and experienced plastic surgeons who regularly perform breast implant procedures in cosmetology clinics. By Geography: North America dominates the global breast implants market, with over 24% share. North America's breast implant market is growing steadily due to rising awareness, high beauty care spending, and interest in advanced procedures. BREAST IMPLANTS MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Rapid Development in Breast Implants with 3D Printing TechnologyThe breast implant industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in development and manufacturing technologies that create significant demand for breast implants. Of such one major development is the incorporation of 3D development technologies in the manufacturing and development of breast implants. It was started in the last decade when first-in-human clinical trials of 3D-printed breast implants (2019) were started in Germany, and now it is widespread across the global market. These 3D printing and development technologies offer the highest level of customization that attracts a significant consumer base. BellaSeno is one of the German companies that uses Evonik's Resomer polymer in its Senella breast implant (3D-printed) breast scaffold products. The polymer allows the scaffold to be absorbed in the body at a rate that matches the patient's Popularity of Anatomical Breast ImplantsRound shape breast implants are considered the gold standard for breast augmentation and reconstruction; however, in recent years, the development of anatomical implants has become an exciting trend in the industry. It involves the application of custom-molded implants that are designed and developed to mimic the shape and give a natural feel. Where anatomical breast implants become an ideal choice for women who are seeking to achieve a balanced look with a natural shape. Anatomical breast implants also known as tear-drop breast implants now commonly referred to as contour profile or shaped breast implants. These implants are filled with gel which gives a more natural feel and comfort making them the most popular choice among youngsters. These increasing applications in breast enlargement to breast implant exchange become popular for patients undergoing revision breast surgery, such as those patients who demand poly implant prostheses (PIP) implant Development in Breast ImplantsThe world of breast implants has witnessed significant and continued developments. Fourth and fifth-generation breast implants revolutionized the breast implant industry. In these generations, significant changes were noticed related to silicone gel cohesivity. In 4th and 5th generation breast implants, the shell of implants was further strengthened, and cohesive versions of silicone gel were used to significantly minimize complications related to gel leakage. In 5th-generation implants, they come up with highly form-stable gel that characterizes gummy bear implants. In addition, Establishment Lab - one of the key companies in the market came up with 6th generation breast implant. The company focused on a patient-centric approach in incorporating and developing revolutionary techniques in its Motiva product to enhance both safety and aesthetic outcomes- MOTIVA IMPLANTS. It is a first-of-their-kind feature that significantly revolutionizes the Volume of Breast Enhancement ProceduresWorldwide, with the widespread of cosmetology and medical aesthetic procedures, breast augmentation procedures become the second leading surgical cosmetic procedure. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) report 2024, more than 1.89 million breast augmentation procedures performed across the world contribute to significant demand for breast implants. Furthermore, the ISAPS article 2024 revealed that more than 4.1 million breast procedures were reported across the world. Of these, over 1.89 million surgical breast augmentation, around 903,266 breast lifts, approx. 686,000 breast reduction, and 335,939 breast implant removal procedures reported across the world. It indicates that the demand for breast surgeries is significantly high across the BREAST IMPLANTS MARKET SEGMENT INSIGHTS Key Market Segments Product: Silicone breast implants control the largest share, emphasizing their popularity for a natural appearance. Shape: Round shapes lead with a 7.70% growth rate, preferred for full-size enhancement and reduced implant rotation. Surface: Smooth surface implants dominate due to their natural feel and reduced need for replacements. Application: Breast augmentation claims the largest application share, fueled by rising cosmetic and medical demands. Geography: North America holds a dominant market share, driven by elevated awareness and advanced procedural needs. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPEThe global breast implants market report consists of exclusive data on 13 vendors. AbbVie, Establishment Labs, Johnson & Johnson (MENTOR), GC Aesthetics, POLYTECH Health & Aesthetics, and Tiger Biosciences are among the leading companies holding a significant market share in the global breast implants market. These vendors offer high-quality and advanced breast implant solutions that meet customer demands and comply with regulatory standards. Major players are continuously enhancing the efficiency of their products and strengthening their market positions. They benefit from strong brand recognition and a broad geographical presence across global markets. Furthermore, the adoption of various strategic initiatives, such as product launches and the development of new products with advanced technologies and materials, has intensified market competition. By focusing on innovation and expanding their capabilities, these companies have successfully increased their revenue share and maintained a competitive edge in the breast implants Strategic Approaches to Strengthen Sales Ratios In 2025, Establishment Labs developed and launched Preserve, a minimally invasive breast tissue preserving technology for breast augmentation, mastopexy augmentation, and revision augmentation procedures. In 2024, the company established a manufacturing and corporate office in Costa Rica to increase the manufacturing capacity of breast implants and other products, which will create revenue growth opportunities. In 2024, Stratasys and CollPlant announced a collaboration to conduct a pre-clinical study for advanced and unique regenerative commercial-sized breast implants. With this collaboration, the companies reported that technology innovations will address around a $3 billion market opportunity in the future. In 2023, AbbVis' Allergen Aesthetics launched the Natrelle Campaign, which will promote and create awareness about the company's breast implant solutions with a higher level of customization. In 2023, Establishment Labs Holding announced the launch of Mia Femtech, a company that offers minimally invasive breast augmentation procedures in Japan to establish a new beginning in breast aesthetics. This expansion will deliver significant brand awareness about its breast implant solution in the Asian market. Key Vendors AbbVie Establishment Labs Johnson & Johnson (MENTOR) GC Aesthetics POLYTECH Health & Aesthetics Tiger Biosciences Other Prominent Vendors Bimini Health Tech Hans Biomed Guangzhou Wanhe Plastic Material Co., Ltd G.A.L.S. Private Limited Laboratoires Arion Sebbin Silimed Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 136 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $2.98 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $4.6 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.5% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1: Scope & Coverage: Breast Implants Market Overview Chapter 2: Breast Implants Market Premium Insights Key Highlights Regional Insights Chapter 3: Breast Implants Market Prospects & Opportunities Chapter 4: Breast Implants Market Industry Overview Projected Revenue of Breast Implants Market (2021-2030; $ Billions) Chapter 5: Breast Implants Market Segmentation Data Projected Revenue by Product (2021-2030; $ Billions) Silicone Saline Projected Revenue by Shape (2021-2030; $ Billions) Round Anatomical Projected Revenue by Surface (2021-2030; $ Billions) Smooth Textured Projected Revenue by Application (2021-2030; $ Billions) Breast Augmentation Breast Reconstruction Projected Revenue by End-user (2021-2030; $ Billions) Hospital Cosmetology Clinics Other End-user Chapter 6: Key Regions Overview Projected Revenue of Breast Implants Market (2021-2030; $ Billions) North America Europe Latin America APAC Middle East & Africa Chapter 7: Competitive Landscape of Breast Implants Market Competitive Landscape Key Vendor Profiles Other Prominent Vendors Key Strategic Recommendations For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Breast Implants Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio

7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil
7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil

Black America Web

time4 hours ago

  • Black America Web

7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil

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And that's a luxury our mamas and grandmamas understood without needing to hashtag it. 2. It Loves On Our Hair—Because Black Hair Deserves Deep, Intentional Nourishment There's nothing like the bond between a Black woman and her hair. And coconut oil has been part of that story for generations. Whether it's massaging it into your scalp with a little peppermint oil, blending it into your shea butter mix, or using it to seal in moisture after a twist-out, coconut oil is the truth. It strengthens, softens, and adds shine without weighing down the hair. And when used with care, it becomes more than a product—it's a ritual. One that reconnects us to our roots—literally and spiritually. 3. It Heals And Protects Our Skin—Because Black Don't Crack…But We Still Moisturize Yes, sis—Black don't crack. But let's be real: it still gets dry, ashy, irritated, and exposed to the same environmental stressors as everyone else. Coconut oil is a blessing for melanin-rich skin. 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Takeaways from AP's report on the business interests of Trump's surgeon general pick
Takeaways from AP's report on the business interests of Trump's surgeon general pick

San Francisco Chronicle​

time4 hours ago

  • San Francisco Chronicle​

Takeaways from AP's report on the business interests of Trump's surgeon general pick

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — President Donald Trump's pick to be U.S. surgeon general has repeatedly said the nation's medical and food systems are corrupted by special interests and people out to make a profit at the expense of Americans' health. Yet as Dr. Casey Means has criticized scientists, medical schools and regulators for taking money from the food and pharmaceutical industries, she has promoted dozens of products in ways that put money in her own pocket. The Associated Press found Means, who has carved out a niche in the wellness industry, set up deals with an array of businesses. In some cases, she promoted companies in which she was an investor or adviser without consistently disclosing the connection, the AP found. Means, 37, has said she recommends products that she has personally vetted and uses herself. Still, experts said her business entanglements raise concerns about conflicting interests for an aspiring surgeon general, a role responsible for giving Americans the best scientific information on how to improve their health. Here are some takeaways from the AP's reporting. Growing an audience, and selling products Means, 37, earned her medical degree from Stanford University, but she dropped out of her residency program in 2018, and her license to practice is inactive. She said she saw firsthand how 'broken and exploitative the healthcare system is" and turned to alternative approaches to address what she has described as widespread metabolic dysfunction driven largely by poor nutrition and an overabundance of ultra-processed foods. She co-founded Levels, a nutrition, sleep and exercise-tracking app that can also give users insights from blood tests and continuous glucose monitors. The company charges $199 per year for an app subscription and an additional $184 per month for glucose monitors. Though scientists debate whether continuous glucose monitors are beneficial for people without diabetes, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has promoted their use as a precursor to making certain weight-loss drugs available to patients. Many companies, including Amazon, have affiliate marketing programs in which people with substantial social media followings can sign up to receive a percentage of sales or some other benefit when someone clicks through and buys a product using a special individualized link or code shared by the influencer. Means has used such links to promote various products sold on Amazon. Among them are books, including the one she co-wrote, 'Good Energy"; beauty products; cardamom-flavored dental floss; organic jojoba oil; sunglasses; a sleep mask; a silk pillowcase; fitness and sleep trackers; protein powder and supplements. She also has shared links to products sold by other companies that included 'affiliate' or 'partner' coding. The products include an AI-powered sleep system and the prepared food company Daily Harvest, for which she curated a 'metabolic health collection.' On a 'My Faves' page that was taken down from her website shortly after Trump picked her, Means wrote that some links 'are affiliate links and I make a small percentage if you buy something after clicking them.' It's not clear how much money Means has earned from her affiliate marketing, partnerships and other agreements. Daily Harvest did not return messages seeking comment, and Means said she could not comment on the record during the confirmation process. Disclosing conflicts Influencers who endorse products in exchange for something of value are required by the the Federal Trade Commission to disclose it every time. But most consumers still don't realize that a personality recommending a product might make money if people click through and buy, said University of Minnesota professor Christopher Terry. While Means did disclose some relationships like newsletter sponsors, the AP found she wasn't consistent. For example, a 'Clean Personal & Home Care Product Recommendations' guide she links to from her website contains two dozen affiliate or partner links and no disclosure that she could profit from any sales. Means has said she invested in Function Health, which provides subscription-based lab testing for $500 annually. Of the more than a dozen online posts the AP found in which Means mentioned Function Health, more than half did not disclose she had any affiliation with the company. Though the 'About' page on her website discloses the affiliation, that's not enough, experts said. She is required to disclose any material connection she has to a company any time she promotes it. While the disclosure requirements are rarely enforced by the FTC, Means should have been informing her readers of any connections regardless of whether she was violating any laws, said Olivier Sylvain, a Fordham Law School professor, previously a senior advisor to the FTC chair. 'What you want in a surgeon general, presumably, is someone who you trust to talk about tobacco, about social media, about caffeinated alcoholic beverages, things that present problems in public health,' Sylvain said, adding, 'Should there be any doubt about claims you make about products?' Potential conflicts pose new ethical questions Past surgeons general have faced questions about their financial entanglements, prompting them to divest from certain stocks or recuse themselves from matters involving their business relationships for a period of time. Means hasn't yet gone through a Senate confirmation hearing and has not yet announced the ethical commitments she will make for the role. Emily Hund, author of 'The Influencer Industry: The Quest for Authenticity on Social Media,' said as influencer marketing becomes more common, it is raising more ethical questions — like what past influencers who enter government should do to avoid the appearance of a conflict. 'This is like a learning moment in the evolution of our democracy,' Hund said. 'Is this a runaway train that we just have to get on and ride, or is this something that we want to go differently?' ___ Swenson reported from New York.

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