This is the 21st century, yet after 20 weeks low risk mothers are only assessed using a tape measure!

Ultrasound scans have been proven to be
3 TIMES
more effective at identifying the smallest babies, those most at risk.
“We know that about 60% stillbirths after 34 weeks are due to insufficient blood flow to baby and this can be prevented if diagnosis is made by scan earlier… The figures are compelling and really do speak for themselves.”Colleen Begg, head of midwifery & clinical director for women and children at Southend Hospital
Modern techniques save lives if used
Customised growth charts
Each baby is unique – these charts are customised for each mother so that growth can be more accurately monitored. They cost almost nothing – and where used, they have cut the stillbirth rate by over 20%
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Ultrasound and doppler
Ultrasound scans are 3x as effective at detecting the babies most at risk. And use of doppler tecnniques to measure blood flow (which require no extra equipment) have reduced stillbirths by up to 50%
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Electronic monitoring
CTG (continuous monitoring) can be used to identify babies in distress, but is frequently misinterpreted (and a leading source of failures). Computers can help with diagnosis, reducing the risk of human error. Read more
- Dept of Health response to 3rd Trimester Scan petition (May 2013)
- Screening for fetal growth restriction with universal third trimester ultrasonography in nulliparous women in the Pregnancy Outcome Prediction (POP) study: a prospective cohort study (Sept 2015)
- Interview with Professor Gordon Smith (November 2015)
- Southend Hospital offer third trimester scan (December 2015)