Guidance on the disposal of pregnancy remains following pregnancy loss or termination

The HTA has revised its published guidance aimed at professionals who work with women who have experienced a pregnancy loss or termination.

The guidance sets out the minimum standard expected from service providers responsible for the disposal of pregnancy remains following a pregnancy loss or termination and how women should be involved in decision-making about the sensitive handling of pregnancy remains.

This revision follows publication of an independent review in July 2023 on pregnancy loss, commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). The review sought to examine NHS gynaecology and maternity care practice for women who experience a pregnancy loss or termination. A consultation to update the HTA guidance on the disposal of pregnancy remains was led by DHSC’s Maternity and Neonatal Unit and involved a broad cross-section of stakeholders.

The revised guidance recognises the sensitive nature of pregnancy loss or termination and makes sure that women are central to the choice about what happens to their pregnancy remains. The guidance recognises that a woman’s understanding of the disposal options available to her are of paramount importance and that her wishes should be respected and acted upon.

The guidance applies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to pregnancy loss or terminations that have not exceeded the 24th week of pregnancy, where no signs of life have been detected following the loss, and whether or not fetal tissue can be identified.

There is separate guidance governing disposal practices in Scotland, produced by the Scottish government: guidance in Scotland.