Subconscious cues can trigger the placebo effect, say researchers

The finding that there are subliminal influences on the placebo effect has implications for how healthcare is delivered

HIV-positive women ‘routinely sterilised without consent’ in Kenya

Kenya launches investigation into researchers' claims that women have been sterilised in government hospitals

Q&A with Naomi Wolf and Matt Williams: the pros and cons of male circumcision

Naomi Wolf and Matt Williams: A US pediatricians' group caused a stir this week with their pro-circumcision advice. Join today's discussion on the issue

Chocolate reduces stroke risk for men, research claims

Research in Sweden says a chocolate bar a week could lower chance of stroke in later life by 17%

Multiple abortions ‘increase chance of premature or underweight births’

Finnish research suggests slightly increased risk of problems for women who have had three or more terminations

Beauty industry: a stealth imperialism with self-harm its main weapon

Hannah Betts: Women around the world are sold western ideals of beauty by an industry making billions and causing untold misery

Calorie restriction doesn’t slow ageing, monkey study suggests

Eating less improved health but had little effect on the longevity of rhesus monkeys, contrary to previous research

How a vaginal cream ad has prompted debate about sexuality in India

Samira Shackle: While India is fast becoming the next superpower, this rapid economic growth is not yet matched by a sexual revolution

Circumcision: the cruellest cut?

Pragmatic hygienic practice or genital mutilation? Why is male circumcision causing such worldwide controversy?

Porn, syphilis and the politics of the money shot

Gail Dines: I regularly saw a mix of saliva, semen, faeces and vomit on porn sets. A call for condom use highlights the plight of performers