Feticide

What is feticide?  

Feticide is a medical procedure used to stop the heartbeat of a baby in the womb before  a termination  of pregnancy (TOP) at a later stage.  It is performed in any pregnancy that  is being ended  after 21+6 days; between 20+0 and 21+6 it is not usually performed but can be done at parent’s request.  

It is possible that signs of life will be present in the fetus after birth if a feticide has not been performed; if they are present then the birth may be recorded as a neonatal death and the coroner notified. For this  reason  some parents may opt to have a feticide procedure.  

Why is feticide offered?

Feticide is offered when a decision has been made to end the pregnancy for medical reasons after 21 weeks and 6 days. It helps ensure the process is managed in the safest and most respectful way and prevents the possibility of the baby being born alive during the induction of labour. The procedure is carried out by a specialist fetal medicine doctor. 

How is the procedure done?

The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance. A medicine (usually potassium chloride) is injected into the baby’s heart to stop it beating. This is usually done under local anaesthetic. The procedure takes a few minutes but you will be monitored for longer. 

Will it hurt?

You will be given local anaesthetic to numb the skin. You may feel some pressure or cramping. The procedure is not painful for the baby. Your care team will support you throughout the process and afterward. 

What happens next?

You will be cared for by a supportive team and offered emotional and psychological support during and after the procedure. You should be given a tablet to turn off the pregnancy hormones and the midwife will also advise you on signs to look out for while you are at home. You are usually asked to return to the hospital within 48 hours where labour is usually induced, and the baby is delivered. This normally happens later the same day or the next day. If you are Rhesus negative you will receive an injection of anti-D. A member of your healthcare team will go through this in more detail with you. 

Is support available?

Yes. You will be offered counselling and bereavement support. The decision to have feticide is never easy, and support is available to help you through it. 

Are there complications?

Complications are uncommon, but can include: 

  • Pain or bleeding afterwards 

  • Infection 

  • Leakage of amniotic fluid 

  • Very rarely, the procedure may need to be repeated if the heartbeat continues