In this article:
What Does it Mean to Have a Stillbirth?
When a foetus dies during pregnancy, it's called a stillbirth. The exact week may vary across healthcare systems, but it typically refers to a loss occurring later in pregnancy or during childbirth. The definition is clinical, but for parents, the experience is very personal and emotional. Why It's Good to Understand:
- It makes unnecessary guilt go away.
- It helps you recognise when to seek medical care.
- It allows you to understand how your care team supports you.
- It prepares you gently without creating alarm.
Stillbirth is complex. Many cases lack a clear, single cause, which is why understanding the broader picture can offer comfort and clarity.
Possible Causes of Stillbirth
Stillbirth often results from several factors rather than one. While clinicians try to identify the cause, the reason may remain unknown even after careful evaluation. Knowing the range of possible causes helps you understand that stillbirth is rarely connected to a parent’s actions.General Causes
- Placental concerns: The placenta may not function as expected, leading to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
- Umbilical cord issues: Rare but possible cord complications may affect the baby suddenly.
- Infections: Certain infections may influence the pregnancy environment.
- Health conditions: Some underlying maternal conditions may affect the pregnancy.
- Foetal development issues: Occasionally, unexpected developmental changes can lead to stillbirth.
- Unknown causes: In many cases, no apparent reason is found, even with a detailed medical review.
Understanding that many causes are unpredictable can relieve feelings of self-blame and help you focus on receiving appropriate support.
Risk Factors You Should Know
Risk factors do not mean a stillbirth will happen. They indicate situations where doctors may recommend closer monitoring. Many pregnancies with risk factors progress safely with good care.Common Risk Factors
- Maternal health conditions: Some health problems may need more care during pregnancy.
- Previous pregnancy complications: A history of stillbirth or preterm birth may necessitate increased monitoring.
- Multiple pregnancy: Having twins or more naturally makes the need for more monitoring greater.
- Age-related factors: Pregnancies at specific age ranges may receive more frequent check-ups.
- Reduced movements: A noticeable change in the baby’s usual movements may prompt evaluation.
Signs That Need Attention
Being pregnant brings on a lot of feelings. Most changes are not dangerous, but some symptoms may need to be checked quickly to make sure everything is going well. When you know these signs, you can act with confidence instead of worry. When to Call Your Doctor:
- A significant drop in how much your baby moves.
- Persistent stomach pain that feels strange.
- Bleeding or fluid leaking from the vagina.
- New or severe headaches with swelling in the hands or face.
- A general feeling that something is not right.
How Stillbirth Is Diagnosed
If doctors suspect stillbirth, they usually confirm it with an ultrasound. This process is handled with extreme care and sensitivity. The aim is to provide clear information while offering emotional support throughout the experience. What to Expect:
- A calm, private space for evaluation.
- Clear explanations from healthcare professionals.
- Emotional support resources are provided soon after the diagnosis.
How it Affects Parents Emotionally
Every parent has a different and deep emotional experience after a stillbirth. Sadness, confusion, anger, or guilt are some of the feelings you might have. These answers are standard and correct. Grief doesn't have a set time frame, and healing happens in waves. Ways to Help Yourself Feel Better:
- Talk to your partner, family, or close friends honestly.
- Think about getting counselling or therapy, especially from professionals who know a lot about losing a baby.
- If you feel better when you talk to others who have been through the same thing, join a support group.
- Give yourself time to move on without feeling rushed.
- You need emotional support to heal and stay healthy.
Understanding Medical Care After Stillbirth
After a stillbirth, doctors may offer tests to understand what happened. These tests can include blood work, placental examination or other evaluations. The purpose is to find possible answers, guide emotional healing and plan future pregnancies safely. Why These Tests Matter:
- They help clarify what may have contributed to it.
- They prepare your care team for future pregnancies.
- They reassure parents that they have explored every possible option.
Stillbirth is a very sensitive topic, and you need to be both kind and understanding to get it. You can feel more informed and supported without feeling more scared if you learn about what causes it, what makes it more likely to happen, and what warns you that it might happen. Being pregnant gives you hope. You can face it with confidence, clarity, and strength if you have the correct information, a good care team, and emotional support.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Stillbirth Explained: Causes, Risk Factors, and What Expecting Parents Should Know
- Does having a risk factor mean stillbirth will happen?
No. Risk factory guides your doctor to monitor more carefully. Many parents with risk factors have safe and healthy pregnancies. - Can stillbirth always be prevented?
Not always. Stillbirth can be complex and unpredictable. Periodic check-ups and open communication with your doctor provide the best support for your pregnancy. - When should I call my doctor if I am worried?
You should contact your doctor whenever something feels different, especially if your baby’s movements reduce or you experience unusual discomfort.
