Mothers

A large new study finds that fathers are generally happier than childless men.

An internal memo sent by ICE's acting director states that custody decisions for pregnant women should now be made on a case-by-case basis.

On the latest episode of Pacific Standard's podcast about how our stories are made, staff writer Francie Diep discusses her experiences covering the opioid epidemic and a promising new treatment program at the University of Kentucky.

A new study shows that more than half of the country's rural counties now don't have hospitals with obstetric services. And women of color are being hit the hardest.

How current policies are keeping single mothers down and out of school.

A new analysis shows parents have a powerful influence on their children's smoking habits, and nicotine-addicted mothers have a particularly strong effect on their daughters.

Without access to paid maternity leave, many low-income mothers are forced to choose between their economic security and their health.

The incredible power of multi-role supermoms.

An early education in the hollowness of patriotic performance.

Reporters should go easy on the sanctimony and fear mongering as they frame articles on pregnancy and childrearing.

As privileged women increasingly embrace their “inner spinster,” a new study offers a timely reminder that single motherhood still comes with serious, material disadvantages for most women in this country.

Posting teen angst poetry and being part of an active commenting community helped Christine Friar digest the garden-variety pain of growing up, and—unbeknownst to her at the time—curbed the loneliness of being raised by one sick parent and one caretaker parent.

Two new books provide honest reflections on the growing trend of opting out.

An unprecedented new report looking at the biochemical mechanisms linked to birth and breastfeeding suggests that over-treatment in the delivery room is having lasting, harmful effects on both mothers and children.

"Even a prison cannot ignore biology."

Exclusive pumping is becoming more popular among American moms, often seen as a way moms can “have it all.” Meanwhile, the effects on maternal and infant health—and workplace policies—are rarely discussed.

It’s time for a less strict and judgmental definition of what makes for a functioning family.

Do we worry too much about the science of breastfeeding? A radical new documentary sets aside the usual arguments to encourage a closer look at the systems that set so many women up to fail.

Germany is facing a serious talent shortage, but the country continues to stigmatize working mothers, who are already underpaid and underemployed.

Tiny numbers, big impacts.

Adrienne Rich calls attention to a ubiquitous system that pits women against each other. Recognizing it should help us to encourage and support instead.