A stillbirth is when a fetus that was expected to survive dies during birth or during the last half of pregnancy.
See also: Miscarriage
Stillbirth is becoming less common as care for pregnancy improves. If you have a stillbirth, your medical provider may request to carefully examine and test the fetus to determine the cause of stillbirth. This may help plan medical care for any future pregnancies. A full autopsy will be offered. You may decline this option if you wish.
Stillbirth can be caused by:
In about 25 - 35% of stillbirths, no explanation can be found.
Stillbirth is traumatic for the mother and her family. It is associated with grief and an increased risk for postpartum depression.