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BBC Morning Live Issues On-Air Apology After Unsafe Pregnancy Advice

The show corrected guidance about using a home stethoscope after pregnancy charity Tommy's said it could give false reassurance.

Overview

  • A prerecorded segment on 29 January about private pregnancy scan clinics featured presenter Zoe Hardman suggesting worried parents could use a stethoscope at home or ask about electronic fetal monitoring.
  • Tommy's publicly called the guidance wrong and dangerous, warning that no app, doppler or home device can confirm a baby's wellbeing.
  • Presenters Kimberley Walsh and Gethin Jones addressed the mistake live, relaying a midwife's message that anyone concerned should contact a midwife rather than rely on a stethoscope.
  • The episode on BBC iPlayer now carries a correction notice stating the programme mistakenly claimed a stethoscope at home could be reassuring and directing viewers to speak to their maternity unit if worried about reduced movements.
  • Tommy's said the programme contacted the charity to confirm the on-air correction and that the episode will be edited to remove the incorrect advice.