A stillborn child is a child born after the 24th week of pregnancy who did not breathe or show any other signs of life. When a child is still-born the midwife or doctor will issue a medical certificate of still-birth which is required for registration.

A stillbirth should be registered within 42 days and cannot be registered more than three months after the event.

Where do you register a stillbirth?

A stillbirth which has taken place within the county of Monmouthshire should be registered at Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny or at the Register Office in Usk.

Parents who suffer a stillbirth can make an appointment to see the registrar at the hospital. (01873 735435) The registrar will see parents in private to record the details and there is no fee to pay for this service.

Who can register?

Either parent provided they were married to each other at the time of the stillbirth. If the parents were not married and they wish to include father’s details, both parents should be present.

In addition to the medical certificate issued by the midwife or doctor, you will need to provide the following information:

• the date and place of the still-birth
• any names the parent(s) wish to give the baby
• mother’s full name (and father’s full name, if applicable), place of birth, occupation and usual address
• mother’s maiden name (if applicable)

You will receive the following documents after registration:

• A certificate for burial or cremation – this is required by the funeral director
• A certificate of registration – this certificate is proof of registration and shows the date of the stillbirth and any names given to the child
• A stillbirth certificate – a certified copy of all the details held in the register is also available