Inequalities and stillbirth in the UK – what does existing research say about how to reduce stillbirths in disadvantaged families?
In the UK some groups and communities are more likely to have a baby who is stillborn. In this study, researchers looked at existing research to learn more about the relationship between stillbirth and inequalities in the UK. They hoped to use their findings to influence policies to reduce stillbirth and save babies lives.
This review, funded by Sands, combined and analysed the findings of several different types of research. The research team found evidence of links between inequalities and stillbirth spanning 70 years. However, there was inconsistency in how information had been collection and recorded. There was no research studying how to reduce stillbirths in disadvantaged families in the UK.
More information
Why do we need this research?
In recent years, much has been learnt about the medical reasons for stillbirth, leading to targeted improvements in care. However, less is known about how to reduce stillbirths for particular social groups, geographical areas, or ethnic groups who are at higher risk of stillbirth.
What are the aims of this study?
The study aimed to learn more about the relationship between stillbirth and inequalities to help shape stillbirth prevention work in the UK.
What will the researchers do?
The researchers searched electronic databases to find research exploring the relationship between stillbirth and inequalities in the UK. They identified 54 relevant studies from nine different types of research spanning the period 1945–2017. The findings from these studies were analysed and compared to identify important themes.
What do we expect from the study?
The study found evidence of links between social inequalities and stillbirth spanning 70 years. Information about socioeconomic, area and ethnic differences were regularly collected, but not always recorded, monitored or reported. Social disadvantage was consistently associated with a higher risk of stillbirth. The review found repeated calls to address inequalities, but less evidence of an effective response. None of the studies included researched interventions to reduce inequalities in stillbirth.
This study provides further evidence that socio-economic deprivation and ethnicity are associated with an increased risk of stillbirth. More research, which includes the perspectives of women, families and health professionals, is now needed to learn about how care can be improved to address inequalities and save babies’ lives.
Additional information:
Lead researcher – Dr Carol Kingdon
Institution – University of Central Lancashire
Funder – Sands
Duration – January 2017 – July 2021
Publications:
Kingdon, C., Roberts, D., Turner, M.A., et al. (2019) Inequalities and stillbirth in the UK: a meta-narrative review. BMJ Open, 9:e029672. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029672