The Daily Mail was so incensed by the sight of pregnant Britney catching some rays on a California beach that it contacted Annette Brileya, senior research midwife at King's College University. Thus, lending an air of authority to its finger wagging.

Annette said: "Pregnant women have a higher body temperature, so we recommend that they avoid the sun rather than go looking for it."

"There's also evidence that UV rays can break down folic acid in the body which is needed in the early stages of pregnancy. Exposure to the sun also makes her at risk of developing the condition cholasma, which occurs in the form of darkened spots on the face and body."

However, not everyone's appalled by Britney's sunbathing antics. Daily Star applauded the attention that the yummy mummy was lavishing on young Sean Preston, claiming: "The troubled singer looked the perfect mum as she cuddled and played with [the] nine-month-old."

Their Hollywood source added: "Britney has had a hard time lately with criticism of her parenting abilities. But it's clear she loves Sean to bits."

Make your own mind up, people, but we would strongly advise against accosting pregnant ladies in a Daily Mail style should you spot one getting some rays. However, you're perfectly within your rights to stand in her light...