Abstract

This study explored how maternity healthcare professionals (HCPs) understand and communicate about stillbirth and its prevention. An online survey was completed by 92 HCPs working in a tertiary maternity hospital. Although the majority (87%) had cared for patients who experienced stillbirth, only half could correctly identify all components of the Irish definition of stillbirth. Participants identified attending antenatal care and avoiding smoking as the most important modifiable risk factors to discuss with pregnant women. However, maternal weight was highlighted as the most difficult topic to raise, both because HCPs felt uncomfortable discussing it and because they believed patients were reluctant to engage with the topic. Time constraints during routine care were seen as a major barrier to delivering stillbirth prevention messages and supporting behaviour change in pregnancy. Findings highlight the need for clearer guidance and improved education for HCPs on how to communicate about stillbirth risks in a sensitive and effective way. Allowing more protected time during appointments to discuss modifiable risk factors could help reduce preventable stillbirths. Investing in staff training and prioritising open, respectful conversations in antenatal care are key steps to improving outcomes for mothers and babies.