A MIDWIFE from a stillbirth charity has responded to the news that personal details of women whose babies died may have mistakenly been published online, saying it could “worsen an already traumatic experience”.

As reported in the Gazette (read here), Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Basingstoke hospital, published sensitive information and private details about three women who had stillbirths, including previous miscarriages and pregnancy terminations.

The information, which has since been removed, was listed as ‘restricted’, and included information including the date and time of the stillbirth, the women’s age and BMI, the gender and weight of their baby, and detailed medical history, including previous miscarriages and pregnancy terminations, as well as an in-depth report of their pregnancy and birth.

Tina Prendeville, a midwife for Tommy’s charity, which funds research into miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth, said: “Stillbirth is one of the most devastating experiences any family can go through, affecting one in 250 pregnancies - equivalent to eight babies a day in the UK. Baby loss is incredibly personal, and everyone copes differently, some parents find it helps to talk while others prefer to grieve privately, but it should always be their choice so having that taken away could worsen an already traumatic experience.

“Many bereaved parents feel anger and betrayal, let down by their bodies or the wider world where they expected their babies to be born safely, but having your loss made public could fuel those emotions. Anyone grieving the loss of their baby can and should reach out for help, whether from loved ones or professionals – we’re always here.”

Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has been asked for a comment but is yet to respond. However, it said it was looking into the possible confidentiality breach and is taking it “seriously”.

The Gazette has asked if the women affected will be informed.