Outrage as US rapper TI says he has daughter’s hymen checked annually

Virginity test discussed on Ladies Like Us podcast contravenes guidelines from UN, who describe it as ‘painful, humiliating and traumatic’

50 years of pickup artists: why is the toxic skill still so in demand?

Teaching men how to approach women they don’t know is a $100m industry. But does it help men find their dream mate - or just encourage street harassment?

Is anxiety more common in our 30s and 40s?

The data shows the likelihood of experiencing anxiety rises then declines – and women are more likely to feel it than men

Happy-go-lucky: Ribble Valley officially named UK’s happiest place

Residents and business owners of rural north-west district unsurprised by ONS findings

Why the mother who started gender-reveal parties regrets them

Celebrating the discovery of your unborn baby’s sex has been coopted by people with repressive, polarised ideas, says the woman who began the trend

Soap opera could be unlikely form of birth control in Uganda

An NGO has recut and overdubbed a Venezuelan telenovela to raise awareness of sexual health

Are pets really good for us – or just hairy health hazards?

Many animal-lovers think a cat or dog can help you live a longer, happier, healthier life. But does the science back them up?

Hottest ticket in town: the mega sauna hosting a Euro theatre contest

A drama competition for 200 naked people in a giant sauna? Our writer gets a sweaty taste of ‘aufgass’ in the Netherlands

Walking, friendship and tiramisu: Genoa’s centenarians share secrets of longevity

The Italian city is home to nearly 300 centenarians – and this number is rising fast. Three women shed light on life beyond 100

Dark crystals: the brutal reality behind a booming wellness craze

The long read: Demand for ‘healing’ crystals is soaring – but many are mined in deadly conditions in one of the world’s poorest countries. And there is little evidence that this billion-dollar industry is cleaning up its act