How to register a stillbirth

Stillbirth registration was introduced on 1 July 1927 to help protect infant life, provide a valuable source of statistical information and to give parents the opportunity to have their child officially acknowledged. A stillborn child is a child born after 24 weeks of pregnancy who did not breathe or show any other signs of life. When a child is stillborn the midwife or doctor will issue a 'Medical Certificate of Stillbirth' which will be used to register the stillbirth.

All still births should be registered within 42 days and must be registered within 3 months at the register office in the areas where the still birth occurred.

Where and when should you register a stillborn baby?

All stillbirths should normally be registered within 42 days and must be registered within 3 months with a Registrar of Births and Deaths in the area where the stillbirth occurred.

Who can register a stillbirth?

It all depends if the parents were married to each other at the time of the stillbirth (or conception).

Do I have to make an appointment?

To make an appointment to register a stillbirth in Southampton please telephone us.

Do I have to pay a fee?

Information on whether you need to pay for registering a stillbirth.

What information will the Registrar need?

In addition to the medical certificate issued by the midwife or doctor you will need to provide the following information.

What documents will the registrar give me?

Certificate for Burial or Cremation - This is the form you need to give to the Funeral Director or person who is arranging the funeral.

Stillbirth - additional information

Support for bereaved parents whose child was stillborn is available from the following organisation.