How common is stillbirth in England and Wales? 

• For every 1000 babies born in 2020, 3.8 were stillborn.
• Around 7 babies were stillborn every day.
• 2,371 babies were stillborn in total in 2020.

Encouragingly, this is a 6% decrease compared with 2019 and the lowest since records began in 1927.

But there's still more to be done. Many countries, including Croatia, Poland and Czech Republic, all have better stillbirth rates than the UK.

Only around 10% of stillbirths are thought to be caused by a fatal congenital abnormality, meaning there is the potential to save up to 90% of stillborn babies.

Stillbirth is 10 times more common than cot death but, arguably, lesser discussed.

How common is neonatal death (death in the first 28 days)?

• In 2020 there were 1,719 neonatal deaths in the UK
• For every 1,000 babies born, 2.8 died within 28 days

Reduced Fetal Movement and Stillbirth

50% of mothers who had a stillbirth noticed slowing down of baby movements beforehand

When a baby is getting less oxygen or nutrients in the womb, they will move less to conserve energy. Reduced baby movements can be a sign that something is wrong and should always be reported

Women who experience more than one episode of reduced fetal movement have a higher risk of stillbirth.

Norway has seen a significant reduction in their stillbirth rate by educating parents on the importance of baby movements. We aim to do the same.