Stats SA data shows steady rise in stillbirths
An increase in perinatal deaths highlights the need for improved maternal and neonatal healthcare, says agency
31 March 2025 - 17:10
The latest government data on perinatal deaths paints a worrying picture of SA’s maternal care, with the number of stillbirths recorded by Stats SA more than doubling from 1997 to 2020.
The number of babies who died in the womb — either before or during delivery — reached 15,908 in 2020, down slightly from 16,187 the previous year. SA defines a stillbirth as a foetus of at least 26 weeks which showed no signs of life at birth. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.