We should not rely on Nicola Sturgeon to break the silence around miscarriage

We are lucky to have women like her speaking out, but we need to challenge the stigma around miscarriage as a society – after all, one in six known pregnancies ends in one

Babies born by caesarean more likely to be obese as adults, study suggests

The way we are born may have a lasting impact on health, possibly because babies born by C-section miss out on exposure to vital bacteria in the birth canal

US teen pregnancy rate drops to record low due to ‘increased contraceptive use’

New analysis finds percentage of sexually active teens who used some form of birth control the last time they had sex increased significantly from 2007 to 2012

MPs urge better job protection for expectant and new mothers

Call for German-style system to reduce ‘shocking’ discrimination, particularly against women in casual work in UK

How did your working life change after childbirth?

New research shows women still earn 18% less than men – with the disparity widening markedly after having children. Share your experiences

Rise in women facing discrimination on taking maternity leave

Citizens Advice records nearly 60% rise in women reporting maternity leave issues including roles being changed and hours reduced

Pregnancy and mental health: the hidden pain of giving birth

The range of mental health problems experienced around pregnancy and childbirth is vast and often isn’t spoken about. Here, we share your stories

Scientists study link between unhealthy pregnancy diet and ADHD

Experts examine how a diet high in fat and sugar could alter baby’s DNA in a way that might cause behavioural problems

‘A baby made his first sound on the 106 bus’: readers share amazing birth stories

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and his wife Jools let their eldest daughters watch the birth of their sibling this week. You told us about the births you’ve witnessed

If we reverse the menopause, where will motherhood end?

Scientists say they can rejuvenate ovaries. I’m surprised by how this prospect makes me nostalgic for the sense of an ending, the ‘natural order of things’