Registering a stillbirth

A still-born child is defined as a child born after the 24th week of pregnancy who did not at any time after being born breathe or show any other signs of life.

A birth which takes place after 24 weeks of pregnancy where it is known that the fetus died in utero before the 24th week does not come within this definition and should not be regarded as a still-birth.

When a child is still-born, the doctor or midwife who was present at the still-birth or examined the body will issue a medical certificate of still-birth. 

Every still-birth in England or Wales must be registered in the district in which it takes place, normally within 42 days. 

The information is recorded in the still-birth register and the person registering the still-birth signs the record.

For further information about registering a still-birth visit GOV.UK or if you would like to discuss is person contact us. 

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