Characteristics of the study population and care
Women who experienced a stillbirth had a median age of 28 years (IQR 11), 62% were multiparous and 9% grand-multiparous (≥ 5 five prior births). 79% were married or co-habiting and 73% had at least a primary school-level of education, with 40% having a secondary school education and only 4% having no school education. The majority of women were unemployed or homemakers (67%), with 28% either employed or studying. Most mothers resided on the main island of Guadalcanal (60%). 29% of mothers with a stillbirth were referred to the National Referral Hospital for their care. The majority of stillbirths were delivered by midwifery or nursing staff (70%, n=100/142). Prior to discharge, 65% of mothers received formal debriefing with local counselling services.