How common is stillbirth in England and Wales? 

The latest available figures are from 2019. 

The stillbirth rate for England fell to a record low for the third consecutive year to 3.8 stillbirths per 1,000 total births, while the stillbirth rate for Wales increased from 4.4 to 4.6 stillbirths per 1,000 total births in 2019.

• For every 1,000 babies born in 2019, 3.9 were stillborn.
• Around 7 babies were stillborn every day.
• 2,522 babies were stillborn.
• Croatia, Poland and Czech Republic all have better stillbirth rates than 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 2018 there were 2,131 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.