Less than 50 percent of people can identify the risks associated with stillbirth

The shocking statistics have "highlighted a need for discussion".

The research found that just 56 percent of Irish parents who were surveyed were unable to identify the risk factors associated with stillbirth. The results were presented by Dr Keelin O’Donoghue and Dr Daniel Nuzum along with a warning that more needs to be done to educate the public on the potential risks.

“This study is timely, as it highlights the need in Ireland for more discussion, more education and more openness in general about stillbirth,” Dr O’Donoghue said while presenting the findings. “As reduced foetal movements is the focus of much global attention as a stillbirth risk factor, the lack of knowledge in this study is concerning. “Improved public health initiatives and antenatal education are necessary to increase awareness of stillbirth risk factors and to improve care and monitoring during pregnancy. “Furthermore for those who have had a stillbirth, robust investigation is important to identify and minimise risk in subsequent pregnancies.”

The research also found that just 17 percent of people were aware of the rate of stillbirth in Ireland despite the finding that 54 percent of people knew someone who had suffered a stillbirth. In Ireland, one in every 238 babies delivered is stillborn.