Advice for parents, doctors and midwives to help prevent stillbirths has been published for the first time by the NHS.
The Saving Babies' Lives Care Bundle includes information about reducing smoking during pregnancy, monitoring foetal growth and movement, and assessing the baby during labour.
An information and advice leaflet on reduced foetal movement will also be given to all expectant mothers by the time they are 24 weeks pregnant.
The initiative - which is the first time NHS guidance has been issued specifically for reducing baby deaths during pregnancy - aims to halve the rate of stillbirths by 2030.
Open Image Modal
Noel Hendrickson via Getty Images
"NHS maternity care is now the safest it's ever been, and most mums say they're cared for brilliantly," said Simon Stevens, chief executive of NHS England according to PA.
"But that makes it all the more tragic and heart-wrenching when for a small number of families something goes terribly wrong.
"We could however cut the chances of this happening if all pregnant mums were encouraged to quit smoking, if proper monitoring takes place during pregnancy, and if maternity providers listen carefully when pregnant women report worries about their baby's movements."
Cathy Warwick, chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives, said it is "unacceptable" that England has a worse stillbirth rate than other countries in western Europe and called on the Government to invest in more midwives.
"Midwives and other staff must have the time to spend with women and they must have the time to attend training," she said.
"Having the right number of midwives will also contribute to continuity of care and carer, with women seeing the same midwife or small number of midwives.
"England remains 2,600 full time midwives short of the number it needs. So whilst this guidance is welcome and valuable, we must have the right numbers of staff to ensure it is implemented correctly."
Elizabeth Hutton, CEO of Kicks Count said she is delighted that the Government is starting to act on its aim to halve the rate of stillbirths.
"Our charity has campaigned to raise awareness of this issue for five years now and it is good news that progress is finally being made," she explained.
"We know, from the many women who contact us, that knowing about the importance of foetal movement saved their baby’s life so the more women that are reached with this message, the more babies can potentially be saved."
I have no morning sickness! Is that bad news?(01 of10)
Open Image Modal
You might have read things about how morning sickness signifies a healthy level of pregnancy hormones – but not having morning sickness does not mean you're lacking! Although many women suffer with it (and 'suffer' really is the word), many other women do not. Some women have it one pregnancy, but not in another. Attend all your usual checks and count yourself as one of the lucky ones! (credit:Alamy )
I drank before I knew I was pregnant, I might have harmed the baby(02 of10)
Open Image Modal
This happens to many, many expectant mums, and it's unlikely to be a cause for concern at all. Mention it to your GP/midwife, and just keep off the booze now, until you can enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz when your bundle arrives. (credit:Alamy )
I'll lose the baby(03 of10)
Open Image Modal
It's estimated about one in five pregnancies ends in early miscarriage, and it's thought most of those occur simply because the foetus wasn't developing properly. It does happen, but don't let it rule your thoughts because the vast majority of pregnancies do succeed. Try not to worry and remember that once you're into the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage is dramatically reduced. (credit:Alamy )
My baby might not be 'perfect'(04 of10)
Open Image Modal
It's estimated that one in 16 babies in the UK is born with a birth defect – but this figure refers to all birth defects, and many are mild and can be treated. So it's likely your baby won't have a birth defect, and even if they do, they will be perfect in their own way – remember support is available for every eventuality. Take your folic acid and attend your antenatal screening appointments. (credit:Alamy )
I won't make it to the hospital on time(05 of10)
Open Image Modal
You might have read terrifying stories about pregnant women giving birth in car parks and taxis – but these stories make it to the news because they are extraordinary, in the literal sense of the word! It very rarely happens, and most women get plenty of warning that labour is beginning. So plan well, and all is very likely to be fine. (credit:Alamy )
I might have to have a c-section(06 of10)
Open Image Modal
If you do end up needing a c-section, you might feel disappointed – but believe us, in the moment the only thing you'll really care about is the safe delivery of your baby. It won't be the end of the world and you won't care a jot when your baby is in your arms. (credit:Alamy )
I won't be able to cope during labour(07 of10)
Open Image Modal
There is just no telling how labour will be for you, so don't worry about it now. Make your birth plan, discuss it with your partner and midwife, and go with the flow on the day (it's okay to change your mind!). There will be lots and lots of help and support at your disposal. Not to mention drugs, should you need them. (credit:Alamy )
Labour will humiliating (will I poo on the bed?!)(08 of10)
Open Image Modal
You've heard about that then? It can happen, but the doctors and midwives have seen it all – they have experienced every possible scenario. They won't be worrying about things like that, so neither should you. (credit:Alamy )
I don't know how to be a mum(09 of10)
Open Image Modal
No-one does until they become one! Every new mum feels like they're winging it in the early days. As your baby grows and you get to know them, you'll learn. Trust in the fact that just about every mother has gone through it… and survived. (credit:Alamy )
I'm worried about gaining all that weight(10 of10)
Open Image Modal
You will put on weight, yes – but it's normal and nothing to be afraid of! Much weight gain is actually down to the baby, the placenta, extra blood in your system and the retention of water. Pregnancy changes your body in myriad ways – just enjoy it, and let your body just do its thing at this special time. Remember, there's no need to 'eat for two'… but eat what you need and don't count calories. (credit:Alamy )