Mothers-to-be to skip vital check-ups

The Royal College of Midwives said women were under "dangerous" stress at work as businesses scale back.

It warned employers not to penalise women who take time off for hospital appointments.

Pat Gould, RCM team manager for London and the South-East, said women working for small businesses were particularly vulnerable.

She said: "Bosses have a duty not to discriminate against women who are expecting."