When a pregnancy is terminated after 20 weeks gestation the baby is classified as a stillborn.  It is a legislative requirement that certain forms be completed to enable a stillborn to be cremated.  Application for cremation of a stillborn child is made on the appropriate form to a medical referee, usually by the child’s nearest surviving relative.

If the pregnancy is terminated prior to 20 weeks there is no legislative requirement for cremation.  The crematorium usually requires a letter from the family and from the attending doctor or midwife setting out the circumstances of the termination.

In both cases, there will be very little ashes remaining and, depending on the size of the baby or length of the pregnancy, there may be no remains at all.

Most cemeteries and crematoria have special sections for children.  Contact your chosen cemetery or crematoria for advice.