What is Stillbirth? Signs & Causes

Foetal death that happens after 20 weeks of pregnancy is termed as stillbirth; if it occurs before 20 weeks, it is a miscarriage. In stillbirth cases, the baby may pass away weeks before delivery, during labour, or shortly after delivery. Although most of the time, the causes of stillbirth are unknown, it can occur due to genetic conditions or issues with the placenta or umbilical cord. Sometimes, foetal complications also lead to stillbirth. Read on to know more.

Types of stillbirths

The three forms are categorised depending on what stage a stillbirth occurs. These are the following:

• Early stillbirth

Occurs between weeks 20 and 27.

• Late stillbirth

Occurs between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation.

• Term stillbirth

Occurs when a pregnancy is 37 weeks or longer.

Are stillbirths common?

The rate of stillbirths varies greatly per region of the world. In developing nations, there are up to 22 stillbirths for every 1,000 live births. This rate of stillbirth is lesser in developed countries. According to reports, the US has 6 cases of stillbirths in every 1000 births. One thing that you need to remember is that improved prenatal care can help in reducing the rates of stillbirths.

Risk factors of stillbirth

A stillbirth during pregnancy occurs due to various risk factors, such as:

• Being too heavy or fat

• If the pregnant lady is over 35 years of age or a teenager

• Having stress before delivery

• Elevated blood pressure during pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Carrying multiples

• Having become pregnant via the use of assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF (in vitro fertilisation)

Causes of Stillbirth

There are several known causes of stillbirth that one should be aware of. Some of these are listed below.

• Labour and pregnancy complications

These include premature labour and carrying multiples (i.e., twins, triplets, or more). Placental abruption (the removal of the placenta from the womb) can also cause this pregnancy issue. According to studies, stillbirths occurring before 24 weeks were more frequently caused by these issues. Pregnancy complications most likely cause one in three stillbirths.

• Issues with the placenta

This issue mainly happens because of insufficient blood supply. According to studies, these fatalities usually occur after 24 weeks of pregnancy.

• Congenital disabilities

Out of all stillborn foetuses, 1 in 5 cases happen because of genetic or structural birth abnormality.

• Issues associated with the umbilical cord

One such instance is when the umbilical cord becomes coiled or compressed, depriving the growing foetus of oxygen, which leads to a stillbirth. This usually happens closer to the end stage of the pregnancy.

• Preeclampsia

Long-term hypertension and preeclampsia, which occur during pregnancy, can lead to a stillbirth. Compared to other phases of pregnancy, the end of the second and beginning of the third trimester are the times when stillbirths associated with these factors occur most frequently.

• Substance abuse

Smoking, drinking alcohol, or consuming recreational drugs can lead to stillbirths.

Signs of Stillbirth

When you no longer feel your baby kick, it could be the first sign indicating something may be wrong. This does not, however, imply that a stillbirth will occur. Since each baby is unique, no set amount of movement is normal. Later in your pregnancy, medical professionals may advise you to monitor foetal kick counts at least once a day. Foetal monitoring or ultrasounds performed during the pregnancy help to ensure the safety of the unborn baby, particularly if you have previously experienced a stillbirth.

Knowing whether the baby's heart is pumping can help you understand that the foetus is normal. Using an ultrasound is a reliable method of determining whether a stillbirth has occurred before delivery. In many cases, pregnant women experience cramps and vaginal bleeding, which can indicate a severe complication. Well, these signs don't always mean stillbirth. So, you should first consult your doctor.