Concealed pregnancies are still occurring in this country even though mother and baby homes no longer exist and the women, choosing to hide pregnancies, are of all ages and social backgrounds, according to research from Trinity College Dublin.

WHAT thoughts went through Ann Lovett’s mind as she awaited the birth of her secret baby 30 years ago will never be known, but a major research project over the next three years will try to better understand what drives expectant mothers to conceal their pregnancies.