Stillbirth Rate Could be Reduced if Better Care was Given to Twins and Triplets

A research project funded by the Department of Health has revealed that women pregnant with twins and triplets are not all receiving the care that they should be afforded.

Apparently, this poor care is resulting in 100 stillbirths a year. This is shocking to read!

Experts have also found that a failure to adhere to the national guidelines is also leading (in addition to stillbirths) to 630 unnecessary C-Sections and 1,300 infant admissions to Neo-Natal intensive care each year.

It’s logical to read that those maternity units who followed the national NHS guidelines had improved outcomes for twins and triplets and for their mothers.

What is the recommended guidance for women carrying multiple babies? In 2013, the NICE guidelines recommended the following: 1) extra scans. 2) Being cared for by health professionals who specialise in multiple births. 3) Drawing up a detailed care plan. 4) Having a detailed strategy with how to deal with a premature birth.

The Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA) used the term “pot luck” to describe what level of care an expectant mother would receive. It really is saddening to read that some hospitals don’t even follow the NICE guidelines. The NHS just shouldn’t offer a postcode lottery service. There should be standardisation throughout with every woman receiving the same level of care. Multiple births are known to be high risk in nature. Therefore, to not put the suggested measures in place really is appalling.

TAMBA concluded that if all maternity units adhered to the NICE guidelines, our stillbirth rate would drop 70 per cent for multiple birth pregnancies. This would save 100 babies lives a year. It would also save the NHS £8 million an year. If there’s truth to the cliche that money talks, you’d think that this would be a wake up call for the NHS.

If you or a loved one would like to discuss a stillbirth compensation claim or neonatal death compensation claim, please do not hesitate to contact us.