The surprising truth about becoming a mother in your 50s – from the women who know

The number of births to women aged over 50 is soaring. But what’s the real story behind the rise? Three mothers talk about the joy of finally having a baby long after it would once have been possible

My girlfriend and I thought she had appendicitis – then she gave birth

Most people have nine months of pregnancy to prepare for parenthood, we had three hours

Laura Kenny: ‘I used to eat spaghetti hoops on toast before training’

The Olympic cyclist, 26, on bland food, baby Albie, and catching up on EastEnders

Indian state launches breastfeeding drive in bid to cut infant deaths

Rajasthan moves to tackle above average infant mortality rate by promoting natural feeding in first hour of life

Adele shares story of friend’s postpartum psychosis to help new mothers

‘Talk about how you’re feeling,’ singer urges, as experts say taboos can leave people isolated

America’s hottest export? Sperm

An American and a Danish company dominate the global sperm market – and both claim their supply is biggest

Diane Abbott: ‘Before going to bed, I wrap my hair and have a cup of camomile tea’

The shadow home secretary on bedtime reading, long days in parliament and the importance of efficient staff

New Zealand to consider miscarriage leave for parents in bid to tackle ‘taboo’ subject

Women and their partners could be entitled to three days of paid bereavement leave after a miscarriage or stillbirth

‘Make the breast pump not suck’: how women are redesigning breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can be a stressful and painful process. Can a generation of female tech professionals create devices to change that?

I’m small but have big breasts – is it OK not to wear a bra?

Society tells us only women with small boobs should go braless, says Chidera Eggerue, but it’s how you feel about it that matters