Technique that examines fragments of foetal DNA in mother’s bloodstream could limit need for invasive screening, according to researchers

A new maternal blood test that can detect thousands of serious genetic conditions in the developing foetus could limit the need for invasive screening during pregnancy, according to scientists.

The test, to be described at the European Society for Human Genetics conference in Gothenburg on Saturday, relies on detecting tiny fragments of a foetus’s DNA that circulate in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. Using advanced sequencing techniques, scientists were able to identify a very high proportion of genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, that are currently only reliably diagnosed using amniocentesis or other invasive tests.

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© Photograph: Teresa Crawford/AP

© Photograph: Teresa Crawford/AP

© Photograph: Teresa Crawford/AP

Six months in, many teens are already back on platforms they were supposed to be blocked from. The ban’s benefits may fall to the next generation.

© Adam Ferguson for The New York Times

More than 2.5 million children across the U.S. live in households where grandparents have taken on the role of primary caregiver. But many grandparents face challenges navigating custody issues and accessing the resources and support they need. Geoff Bennett discussed these families with Donna Butts, author of "Grandfamilies: Stories of Children and the Loving Relatives Who Raise Them."

Society has treated parenting as a private endeavor. But what if raising children is also a public good?

Paul Edwards ordered the publication before the birth of his son in 2007, but experienced pregnant pause before receiving it this week

When Paul Edwards ordered a parenting magazine in 2007, he was hoping that it would provide helpful advice and offers to help him navigate the stresses and challenges of bringing up children.

However the magazine never arrived – until now. The copy of Mother & Baby was delivered on Friday – 19 years after he ordered it – with his children now studying at university.

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© Photograph: Paul Edwards

© Photograph: Paul Edwards

© Photograph: Paul Edwards