Abstract

It is essential that stillbirths are included in all analyses on the global impact of COVID-19. Missed opportunities to include stillbirths in ongoing research and analyses will compromise the basic need to uncover the drivers of increased stillbirth rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although modelled estimates are important, real data for stillbirth rates during and after the pandemic are needed. We support all efforts to develop a minimum perinatal data reporting or core outcome set for stillbirth to ensure inclusion of stillbirth in COVID-19 data monitoring. Using estimates where coverage of routine data systems are low or non-existent will recognise the full impact of COVID-19 on women, families, and communities and facilitate planning and allocation of resources to fight the pandemic. Increasing visibility of the greater burden of stillbirth due to COVID-19 can raise awareness at the country level and locally so that preventive measures can be taken and appropriate, respectful clinical and bereavement care can be provided if stillbirth or newborn death occurs. Reducing preventable stillbirths and newborn deaths must be a global priority. This goal requires not only sustained, universal access to quality maternal and newborn care, it also requires the data to track and guide public health action.