Risk of stillbirth in England highest for women in deprived areas

The risk of stillbirth in England is at least twice as high for women living in deprived circumstances, and this inequality has not changed for eight years.

Research published online in BMJ Open, found women living in the most deprived conditions were three times as likely to give birth to a stillborn baby compared to those in the most affluent.

Reasons for this included previous pregnancies, several pregnancies close together, smoking during pregnancy, and being either a very young or older mother.

The research authors assessed stillbirths occurring in England between 2000 to 2007.

The authors say there is evidence from other high income countries where the stillbirth rate has fallen proving these factors can be addressed.