Trigger warning: Please be aware that the episode of Life and Birth due to be broadcast on BBC One at 8pm on Tuesday 12 May contains scenes that could possibly be upsetting or triggering for anyone who has been affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby.

The Sands free helpline is open until 10pm on Tuesday evening for anyone who needs support.

The Freephone Helpline number is: 0808 164 3332. You can also email the Helpline if you would prefer at: helpline@sands.org.uk or visit our online community  

Life and Birth is a documentary series exploring maternity and birth for BBC One told through the eyes of the parents and staff at three of Birmingham’s busiest and most diverse maternity units; Heartlands Hospital, Good Hope Hospital and Birmingham Women’s Hospital.

 

The series captures the extraordinary work of the NHS midwifes, doctors and surgeons who support families as they go through their own individual pregnancy journeys. From natural births, early scans and fetal medicine to specialist care for women who have experienced multiple miscarriages, this series shines a light on all aspects of maternity care. 

 

Tonight's episode features the story of a family who had serious complications in a previous pregnancy which lead to the loss of their child at 40 weeks.  The episode follows the family during the labour and birth of their third child, during which they talk openly about grief and their anxieties that have been experienced during this pregnancy as a result.  Ultimately the story is a testament to the couple’s bravery and resilience and the importance of family support in difficult times.



Within the episode, there is a scene where the midwife momentarily struggles to find the babies heartbeat, although the couple go on to have a healthy baby girl.

Dragonfly Film and Television who made the series contacted Sands to make sure those who could be affected by this story are aware of it’s content in advance of it being broadcast.

The series is available to watch on BBC Iplayer.