Stillbirth

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Stillbirth and infant mortality rates have fallen in the UK since the early 1900s, but in the last two decades progress has slowed.
Stillbirths and infant deaths are linked to a number of complex and interacting risk factors, many of which can be addressed.These include obesity, smoking, maternal age and inequalities across different socioeconomic and ethnic groups.
Improvements in care received during pregnancy, labour and early infancy could also improve mortality rates.
Studies show that many existing guidelines to improve care in the UK are not being followed, such as those relating to testing and monitoring of women with an increased risk of complications during pregnancy.