Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo scored twice as the Bees dealt a blow to Brighton's hopes of qualifying for next season's European competitions. The Cameroon international gave Thomas Frank's side the lead with a powerful right-footed effort following a defence-splitting Keane Lewis-Potter through ball. Striker Danny Welbeck equalised for Brighton with his ninth league goal of the season - equalling his most prolific Premier League campaign - by heading in Mats Wieffer's cross on the stroke of half-time. Mbeumo, 25, scored his second of the day and 18th of the season when his curling effort found the bottom corner after a slight deflection off Lewis Dunk. The Cameroonian turned provider for Brentford's third, teeing up strike partner Yoane Wissa, who saw his effort deflect in after cannoning off defender Jan Paul van Hecke. It went from bad to worse for Brighton as Brazilian striker Joao Pedro was shown a straight red card for lashing out at Brentford defender Nathan Collins in an off-the-ball incident. The Seagulls set up a tense finish when substitute Kaoru Mitoma scored their second, beating Mark Flekken with a deft left-footed finish following Jack Hinshelwood's through ball. But Brentford captain Christian Norgaard put the result beyond doubt in the sixth minute of stoppage time when he headed in Mathias Jensen's free-kick. A clash of heads between Brighton defender Van Hecke and Brentford's Yunus Konak in the final minute of injury time led to a delay of 10 minutes, with the Dutchman eventually being carried off on a stretcher after receiving oxygen. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler was unable to offer an update on Van Hecke's condition after the match but said "hopefully he's back on the pitch soon". The defeat means Brighton have earned just one point from their past four matches, leaving them 10th in the table, six points behind sixth-placed Chelsea and two points ahead of 11th-placed Brentford. Brentford are the only club in the Premier League to have more than one player in the top-10 scorers this season. Those players are, of course, Mbeumo and Wissa. Only three players - Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland - have scored more than the 18 goals Mbeumo has managed this season, while Wissa is fifth in the standings with 16. But the pair are so much more than just goals. Mbeumo, in particular, had an afternoon to remember against Brighton. He ran the channels expertly, giving his side a constant threat on the break. His first goal of the afternoon came via a rapid counter-attack, which Frank had prepared his side for. "We knew we could hit them in behind on the transition and this is what we did," said Mbeumo. "We respected the gameplan very well." Mbuemo and Wissa have scored in the same game seven times this season - more than any other pairing in the Premier League. Brighton's European hopes are sinking fast. Since losing to Nottingham Forest in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on 29 March, the Seagulls have collected just one point from a possible 12. The anger of travelling supporters spilled over 15 minutes from time, with fans chanting: "You don't know what you're doing" at manager Fabian Hurzeler. It came after the German took off Welbeck and Carlos Baleba for Yasin Ayari and Diego Gomez, with the Seagulls losing 3-1. It was a public showing of growing fan discontent but Hurzeler will argue that his side improved following the changes. But striker Welbeck alluded to a disconnect in his post-match interview, accusing his team-mates of not playing for one another. "We made our bed and we have to lie in it. It's not good enough," said Welbeck. "There have been so many of these performances throughout the season. "We need to play far more collectively. Fight for each other more. It was evident that we weren't doing that."

For many women, the path to motherhood is paved with dreams, anticipation, and sometimes, a few unexpected detours. One of the most common, but frequently misunderstood, challenges along that journey is uterine fibroid. These are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus. If this is something you’re currently navigating, you’re not alone, by age 50, nearly 70 percent of women will have experienced fibroid in some form.
Fibroid comes in different sizes, shapes, and locations. Some are so tiny you’d never know they’re there, while others can grow large enough to physically alter the shape of the uterus. They may grow on the outer wall, within the muscular wall, or inside the uterine cavity. The submucosal type is especially known for affecting fertility as they can interfere with implantation, or increase the risk of miscarriage. What’s particularly important to understand is that the location of fibroid often has more impact on fertility than their size alone.
While the exact cause of fibroid remains a medical mystery, they could run in the family; it’s not just one thing, it’s a mix of influences. Even though fibroids sprout from the muscular tissue of your uterus, they’re not your average cells. The growths have a genetic profile that sets them apart from normal uterine muscle, and are loaded with estrogen and progesterone receptors, the very hormones that prep your uterus for a possible pregnancy every month.
One of the most emotionally charged questions many women ask is, “Can I get pregnant with fibroid?” And the answer is encouraging: yes, many women with fibroid conceive and have healthy babies. But it depends on the size, number, and location. Submucosal fibroids are more likely to interfere with pregnancy, intramural ones may distort the uterine cavity, and subserosal types usually have minimal impact unless unusually large. These variations mean that what works for one woman may not be suitable for another, making personalized care essential.
During pregnancy, fibroid can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and abnormal baby positioning. Occasionally, they outgrow their blood supply and cause severe pain, most commonly in the first trimester when hormonal changes cause rapid growth. This can be alarming, but not every fibroid leads to complications. Many women go through pregnancy with fibroid without any major issues.
When it comes to growth, fibroids doesn’t follow a predictable script; some hang out quietly for years, never changing size or causing trouble, others might show up during pregnancy, respond to hormonal fluctuations, and then vanish like they were never there. Menopause usually slows them down, new fibroids are less likely to form, and existing ones may shrink. Fibroids used to be a leading reason women had hysterectomies, which meant sacrificing fertility and enduring longer recoveries. Thanks to advances in medical technology and treatment methods, such drastic measures are no longer necessary.
Treatments vary based on goals, symptoms, and fibroid characteristics. Surgical options like myomectomy are often chosen to preserve fertility, especially when submucosal or large intramural fibroids are present.
Non-invasive techniques like High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound or uterine artery embolisation might be appropriate depending on individual circumstances, although their impact on future fertility must be carefully considered.
Medications such as GnRH agonists can shrink fibroids temporarily and may be used to prepare for surgery, but they aren’t ideal for women actively trying to conceive, as their effects are reversible and not long-term.
Most women with fibroids will not be infertile; therefore, such women and their partners should be thoroughly evaluated to find other problems possibly causing infertility. A fertility specialist can help assess if a fibroid might be interfering with achieving a pregnancy.
The biggest concern in pregnancy is that a fibroid will increase the chance of preterm birth or miscarriage. In some cases, a fibroid can outgrow the blood supply and cause severe pain.
Also, a fibroid can change the baby’s position in the uterus. This can increase the risk for miscarriage, preterm delivery, and cesarean section. The management of fibroids depends on your unique situation and your doctor’s recommendations. Surgery is rarely necessary or performed during pregnancy.
If a woman conceives after having a fibroid removed, she should discuss this with the obstetrician who will deliver the baby. A cesarean section may be recommended.
If you’re trying to conceive, experiencing symptoms, or simply exploring your options, diagnosis and treatment should be tailored to your unique journey.
Symptoms such as heavy periods, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and constipation might be signs, though many women only learn about their fibroid when facing fertility challenges or pregnancy loss.
Diagnosis may involve pelvic exams, ultrasounds, MRIs, or procedures like hysteroscopy that provide a clearer view. In some cases, saline-infused sonograms may be used to highlight fibroids hidden within the uterine cavity.
There’s also a growing interest in holistic approaches, such as dietary changes, herbal therapies, and acupuncture. While these aren’t replacements for medical intervention, some women find they help manage symptoms or improve overall well-being. Incorporating lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and limiting intake of foods that influence estrogen levels, may also play a role in managing fibroids over time. It’s important to note that fibroid isn’t just a fertility issue; they affect women’s quality of life in deeply personal ways. Chronic pain, excessive bleeding, and emotional distress can take a toll, even when fertility isn’t an immediate concern. That’s why listening to your body and seeking care, whether through a gynaecologist, reproductive expert, or holistic practitioner, is so important. If fibroid is causing excessive bleeding, you might try hormonal medications that can help tone down the bleeding and reduce fibroid size, but they won’t make them disappear completely. Birth control pills also help with managing bleeding, though they don’t help in shrinking the growths. Still, for some women, these methods offer enough relief to reclaim their quality of life. Having fibroid doesn’t mean you won’t get pregnant or have a healthy baby. It’s about knowledge, early diagnosis, and thoughtful care, with support and informed decisions, you can move through these challenges and go on to experience beautiful, healthy pregnancies. Your story is yours alone, and fibroid is not the end of it. Understanding the risks, listening to your body, and having a care team that believes in your possibilities can make all the difference. Because when it comes to your fertility journey, knowing more isn’t just empowering, it’s trans-formative. And while fibroid may complicate the path, it should not define your destination. With the right tools, treatment, and support, you can continue forward, hopeful, informed, and never alone.

Manchester City remain on track to qualify for next season's Champions League after winning at Everton with two late goals. An uninspiring contest looked to be heading for a drab draw before being brought to life with six minutes remaining when young full-back Nico O'Reilly stole in from close range to convert Matheus Nunes' cutback. Substitute Mateo Kovacic added a second in injury time on the stretch as Pep Guardiola's men climbed to fourth in the table, four points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea, who face neighbours Fulham on Sunday. The first half was often flat and made for a poor spectacle, with Everton's best chance going the way of centre-back James Tarkowski, who rose highest to James Garner's corner and flicked a header against the post. On the stroke of half-time, City could have gone ahead with a rapid break forward but Kevin de Bruyne saw his goalbound strike brilliantly cleared off the line by Jake O'Brien's diving header. Savinho's low drive was kept out by Jordan Pickford's sharp save in the second period, before City had the final say. City have competed in Europe's elite club competition for 14 consecutive seasons - but with the clock on 84 minutes at Goodison Park, that sequence was under real threat. Then came the rally for a monumental victory in the context of their season. They host in-form Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday and the result there may well go a long way to ensuring City's status in the top echelon of the European club game next season. Guardiola's side have dominated English football by winning four titles in a row - the only club to achieve that feat - but their long stranglehold on the trophy is about to end, and will do so as early as Sunday if Arsenal lose to Ipswich and Liverpool beat Leicester. City have had a long injury list to contend with this season and there was a real lack of quality on show in the final third at Goodison Park, with youngster O'Reilly and Kovacic needed to bail them out. Ilkay Gundogan made Pickford work with a rasping strike straight at the goalkeeper, but the 34-year-old was on the periphery of the game and has made little impact since returning to the club from Barcelona. De Bruyne was the star man against Crystal Palace last time out but the 33-year-old is into his final few games as a City player before he leaves the club this summer. The Belgian has suffered injuries and his waning influence was often evident against Everton with miskicks and miscued passes in the final third. But they left Goodison Park for the final time having won their last eight Premier League games here against Everton and stretching their top-flight run to five unbeaten games at the right time of the campaign. Everton, in the midst of a run where they face five of the league's top six, looked to be heading for another excellent result but for City's late show. The Toffees picked up an impressive late win at Nottingham Forest last Saturday, but were on the receiving end of two goals in the dying minutes here. David Moyes suffered just his third defeat since returning as boss in January, but has now gone 16 games without winning against City. His team had their chances, having frustrated their opponents for long periods. Jarrad Branthwaite's looped header was clawed out by Stefan Ortega and Abdoulaye Doucoure's strike from the angle was pushed away by the City stand-in goalkeeper. Tarkowski came closest to breaking the deadlock for the hosts when hitting the woodwork, but the defender hobbled off in the opening period with an apparent hamstring injury. The centre-back has started 111 consecutive games for Everton, three short of the outfield record held by Wayne Bridge, and he only has a week to recover before their next game at Chelsea on Saturday.

The journey to effective coparenting goes beyond practical arrangements alone; it also challenges deep-rooted cultural values and expectations. As society continues to evolve, so does the potential for parents to collaborate across the divides of separation for the benefit of their children and the community at large. Challenges with coparenting in some cultures stem from a complex interplay of cultural norms, societal expectations, religious values, gender roles, judicial systems, behaviours, and communication patterns. Understanding cultural and societal factors helps create supportive environments where parents can prioritise their children’s well-being. Respectful and effective collaboration in coparenting benefits both children and parents. Healthy relationships Positive coparenting provides children with a valuable example of how to maintain respectful and constructive relationships, even in challenging circumstances. When parents demonstrate healthy communication, mutual respect, and effective conflict resolution, children learn that differences can be managed without hostility or resentment. When children observe their parents’ positive behaviour, they are more likely to become empathetic and emotionally regulated, which helps them form healthy and respectful relationships as adults in their own personal lives. When children observe that their parents can cooperate peacefully after their separation or divorce, it gives them a sense of stability, knowing that their parents can still support each other despite the situation. This reassuring environment reduces anxiety, distress, and potential behavioural issues, leaving children feeling secure and emotionally stable. Consistent rules and boundaries When separated or divorced parents maintain consistent rules, expectations, and discipline across their different homes, children benefit from a stable and predictable environment irrespective of their routines. Consistency helps children feel secure because they know what to expect from both parents, which helps reduce confusion and manipulation. It also helps them become more responsible, accountable, and emotionally secure. Stronger parent/ child relationships When parents support each other’s roles, children develop healthier, more secure relationships with both parents, which further reduces loyalty conflicts and helps children feel loved and connected. This can also boost children’s trust and emotional well-being. Positive coparenting reduces conflict and stress between parents, making daily parenting smoother and more manageable. This creates a calmer environment for children and allows parents to be more emotionally supportive. Better communication Positive coparenting encourages open, respectful, and purposeful communication between parents. When parents are committed to working together, they are more likely to manage conflicts constructively rather than through hostility or by playing the blame game. Effective coparenting communication fosters mutual understanding and helps parents make informed decisions. It also models healthy conflict resolution, teaching children how to manage disagreements with respect and calm. Boost positive mental health Positive coparenting improves emotional well-being by reducing conflict and promoting respectful communication, which lowers stress and helps parents manage parenting, maintain healthy routines, and support personal growth. Sharing responsibilities and making decisions collaboratively can reduce feelings of overwhelm and the pressure of parenting alone. Emotionally healthy parents bring patience, responsiveness, and consistency to parenting, reinforcing family bonds and fostering a nurturing environment for everyone. Parents are more likely to enjoy their time with their children, feel fulfilled in their role, and maintain a more positive relationship even after a separation or divorce.