What is a requirement for a stillbirth to be legally recognized?

For a stillbirth to be legally recognized in New Zealand, both criteria must be met: the baby must weigh at least 400 grams at birth, and the baby must be born from 21 weeks of pregnancy.

This legal framework is grounded in the desire to provide a clear and consistent definition for medical and administrative purposes. The weight requirement of 400 grams establishes a physical threshold that helps determine the viability of the fetus at the time of birth. This is critical, as it reflects the potential for survival outside the womb.

Similarly, the gestational age of 21 weeks is significant because it marks a point in fetal development where the likelihood of survival begins to increase. By setting this minimum gestational age, the law acknowledges the developmental milestones a fetus must reach to be considered stillborn in a legal context.

Both these criteria work together to inform healthcare providers, families, and legal systems regarding the status of a stillbirth, ensuring that the recognition process is consistent and equitable.