Anencephaly is the most severe of a group of conditions known as Neural Tube Defects (NTDs). It happens in about 1 in 2,000 pregnancies in the UK and occurs during the first 28 days of pregnancy when an unborn baby’s brain does not form properly in the womb. Diagnosed by ultrasound at the dating scan, anencephaly is sadly always fatal.

Shine’s specialist health advisors provide emotional support to parents-to-be following a diagnosis of anencephaly, and after the loss of their baby. The team offers a safe, non-judgemental place for those whose lives have been affected by anencephaly to ask questions and openly discuss their feelings, at any stage of their journey.

Shine’s health team also offer practical advice and information that supports parents in feeling better placed to make the right choices for themselves and their family during this very difficult time. Our goal is to help families remember that they are not alone.

Your generous donation would help us maintain this vital service and offer support for as long as someone needs us. It would also enable us to provide advice on preparing for a further pregnancy, to help reduce the 1-in-50 chance of anencephaly reoccurring.