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Stillbirths

A quick guide to registering stillbirths

Stillbirths in England and Wales must normally be registered within 42 days of the stillbirth but cannot be registered more than 3 months after its occurrence. This can often be done at the hospital or if not at the local register office. If the parents are married to each other, either parent can register the stillbirth. If the parents are not married to each other, they should click on the links on the right hand side to get further information.

If you are looking for a further copy of the stillbirth certificate, you will need to contact us by phone or in writing first. Please see Obtaining a stillbirth certificate.

This section of the website has detailed information on all these topics as well as what documents are needed for the registration, the paperwork you will be given and what you need to do if you wish to change any of the details on the certificate at a later date. Please click on a link from the right hand side of the page to read about all these topics in greater detail.