Coping with the Heartbreak of Stillbirth: Understanding Your Rights and Support in England and Wales

Losing a baby through stillbirth is one of the most devastating experiences any parent can face. If you have suffered the pain of stillbirth, our hearts go out to you during this incredibly difficult time. The emotional and physical toll can feel overwhelming, and the journey ahead may seem uncertain. While no words can heal such a profound loss, understanding why this may have happened and exploring your options may provide some clarity and support as you navigate this painful chapter.

We understand how deeply sensitive and difficult this subject is, and we are here to support you. In this article, we discuss the steps you can take if you have concerns about the care you received. Please reach out whenever you feel ready, we have listed a baby loss information and support page here for further guidance.

What is Stillbirth?

In England and Wales, a stillbirth is defined as the death of a baby after 24 weeks of pregnancy but before or during birth. Unfortunately, around 3,000 stillbirths occur every year, with many happening unexpectedly. The reasons for stillbirth can vary, and sometimes, despite the best care, the causes remain unexplained. However, in some cases, preventable factors or medical negligence may have played a role.

Why Does Stillbirth Happen?

Stillbirth can occur due to a variety of medical reasons, some of which are unavoidable, while others may result from complications during pregnancy or labour.

Common causes of stillbirth include:

1. Placental Problems: The placenta may fail to provide sufficient oxygen or nutrients to the baby, leading to growth restriction and, in some cases, stillbirth.
2. Infections: Maternal infections such as Group B Strep, or infections affecting the baby, can sometimes lead to stillbirth if not detected and treated in time.
3. Umbilical Cord Issues: Problems with the umbilical cord, such as cord prolapse or knots, can cut off the baby’s oxygen supply, sometimes leading to stillbirth.
4. Pre-eclampsia and Hypertension: High blood pressure in the mother can affect the blood flow to the baby and may increase the risk of stillbirth if not carefully monitored and managed.
5. Diabetes: Gestational diabetes can raise the risk of stillbirth, particularly if it is not well controlled during pregnancy.
6. Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): When a baby’s growth slows down or stops in the womb, there is an increased risk of stillbirth, particularly if the condition goes undiagnosed or untreated.

When Might Stillbirth Be Due to Negligent Care?

In some heartbreaking cases, a stillbirth may occur due to failures in the medical care provided during pregnancy or labour. If you have concerns that the care you or your baby received may have contributed to your loss, it is important to know that you are not alone, and there may be grounds for a clinical negligence claim.

Here are some examples of where care might fall short:

Failure to Monitor Fetal Movements

A reduction in your baby’s movements may indicate distress or other serious issues. If medical professionals fail to properly investigate or act on changes in fetal movement, it could result in a preventable stillbirth.

Delayed Diagnosis of Infections or Pre-eclampsia

If infections such as Group B Strep or pre-eclampsia are not diagnosed or treated promptly, the risk to both mother and baby can increase significantly. Delays in diagnosing and treating these conditions may be considered negligent.

Inadequate Monitoring During Labour

During labour, continuous monitoring of the baby’s heart rate is vital to detect signs of distress. If the baby’s condition is not closely monitored, or if warning signs are ignored, the outcome can be tragic.

Failure to Recommend Early Delivery

In cases where the baby is not growing properly, or the mother’s health is at risk, medical professionals may recommend early delivery. If this recommendation is not made or acted upon in time, the baby may face further risks in the womb.

Mismanagement of High-Risk Pregnancies

Pregnancies where the mother has conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or a history of complications require close supervision. If the risks are not managed appropriately, the baby may be at higher risk of stillbirth.

How our team can help

We understand that legal advice may be the furthest thing from your mind during such a traumatic time. However, if you feel that your loss could have been prevented or if you have questions about the care you received, we are here to offer support and guidance. Speaking with a compassionate legal team can help you gain clarity and understand your options, should you wish to explore whether medical negligence played a role in your baby’s death.

At this time, you deserve compassion and care. We provide an empathetic and supportive service, offering advice that is sensitive to the emotional journey you are on. We understand that making a claim won’t ease the pain, but it can provide answers and ensure accountability where care standards have fallen short.

Supporting You Through the Next Steps

If you are considering pursuing a claim, our team can help you at every stage of the process. We will listen to your story, investigate the circumstances of your care, and consult with medical experts to determine whether mistakes were made. Above all, we are here to ensure that your voice is heard and that you receive the understanding and support you need.

Please know that you do not have to go through this alone. Whether you simply need someone to listen or wish to explore your legal rights, we are here to provide the compassionate advice you deserve. Our goal is to help guide you through this difficult time with understanding, care, and support.

Final Thoughts

Losing a baby through stillbirth is an unimaginable tragedy, and no words can ever truly express the depth of that loss. If you feel that medical care may have played a role in your stillbirth, we are here to help. We will listen, guide, and support you every step of the way. You deserve answers, and you deserve care that puts you and your family first.

Please reach out to us whenever you feel ready by requesting a callback on our website or calling 0191 691 3415. You are not alone, and we are here for you.