A stillbirth is when a fetus that was expected to survive dies during birth or during the last half of pregnancy.

See also: Miscarriage

Information

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:

• Birth defects
• Chromosome abnormalities
• Infection, in the mother or the fetus
• Injuries
• Medical conditions of the mother, such as diabetes, epilepsy, and hypertention
• Sudden severe blood loss (hemorrhage) in the mother or fetus
• Stopping of the heartbeat (cardiac arrest) in the mother or fetus
• Uterine problems (placental detachment, poor placental function, or intrauterine growth restriction)

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.

Alternative Names