# Stillbirth Trends and Determinants: A Six-Year Registry-Based Analysis From Two District Hospitals in the United Kingdom (2019-2024)

## TL;DR

This study analyzed stillbirth trends over six years in two UK hospitals, identifying risk factors like maternal age and BMI to guide prevention strategies.

## Contribution

The paper provides a detailed, local analysis of stillbirth patterns and risk factors in the UK using registry-based data.

## Key findings

- Most stillbirths occurred in women over 30 years old, with the highest proportion in those over 35.
- Over a third of stillbirths occurred after 36 weeks' gestation.
- Reduced fetal movements and high maternal BMI were the most common modifiable risk factors.

## Abstract

Introduction: Despite advances in obstetric care, stillbirth remains a major public health concern. Understanding local patterns and risk factors is essential for developing targeted strategies for prevention. This study aimed to review the demographic and clinical characteristics of stillbirths across two district hospitals in the United Kingdom over a six-year period.

Methods: A retrospective secondary analysis was conducted using registry-based surveillance data of all stillbirths occurring between 2019 and 2024 at two hospitals under the same healthcare trust. Data on maternal demographics, gestational age at stillbirth, and associated risk factors were extracted and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to identify key trends. As this was a secondary analysis of de-identified data, ethical approval was waived.

Results: A total of 118 stillbirths were documented during the study period. The majority occurred in women aged >30 years (n=68, 57.6%), with the highest proportion in those aged >35 years (n=39, 33.0%). A significant number of stillbirths occurred at >36 weeks’ gestation (n=42, 35.6%). White women accounted for the majority of cases (n=84, 71.2%), although notable trends were also observed among Asian and Black ethnicities in specific years. Reduced fetal movements (n=50, 42.4%) and high maternal BMI (n=31, 26.3%) were the most frequently reported modifiable risk factors.

Conclusion: This study highlights ongoing challenges in stillbirth prevention and emphasizes the importance of timely detection of fetal compromise and targeted interventions for at-risk groups. Regular institutional reviews are essential for guiding quality improvement efforts.