Stillbirth is one of the most devastating experiences an expectant mother can face the loss of a baby after 24 weeks of pregnancy. While advances in medical science have improved maternal and fetal care, stillbirths continue to occur, often without a clearly identifiable cause. Understanding the possible causes, risk factors, and emotional impact can help families better prepare and cope with this tragic event.
Stillbirth can sometimes be traced to identifiable medical reasons. These include placental abruption when the placenta detaches from the uterus poor placental function, or health complications with the baby, such as developmental abnormalities or infections that hinder the baby’s growth. Maternal health conditions also play a role. Issues like poorly controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, or bleeding before birth can increase the risk.
There are both unchangeable and changeable risk factors linked to stillbirth. Unchangeable risk factors include maternal age being very young (under 20) or older (over 35), a previous history of stillbirth, pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, carrying multiples such as twins, or continuing the pregnancy beyond 41 weeks. Other risks include having a smaller baby (a condition known as Fetal Growth Restriction), low educational attainment, reduced fetal movement, or underlying medical issues like thyroid disorders, blood clotting abnormalities, or infections.
On the other hand, changeable risk factors often relate to lifestyle or access to healthcare. These include smoking more than 10 cigarettes a day, alcohol or drug use, untreated high blood pressure, obesity, and living in areas with poor healthcare access or socio-economic deprivation. Addressing these modifiable factors can significantly reduce the likelihood of stillbirth.
One of the most noticeable signs of a possible stillbirth is the absence of fetal movement. Pregnant women are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience this. An ultrasound is typically performed to confirm whether the baby’s heartbeat is still present, making it the most accurate diagnostic tool.
If stillbirth is confirmed, the family should be supported emotionally while they come to terms with the loss. Privacy is important during this time, but so is compassionate care. Medical professionals should be available to answer any questions and help families make informed decisions about the next steps, such as birth plans, pain relief options, and opportunities to create memories with the baby.
In some cases, labour may be delayed by up to 48 hours to allow the family more time to prepare unless there are urgent medical concerns like heavy bleeding or high blood pressure that necessitate quicker intervention. Labour is usually induced using medication, although some women may choose to wait for natural labour. In certain situations, a Cesarean section might be required.
Following delivery, the mother may experience normal post-birth symptoms such as cramping, bleeding, and fatigue. However, signs of infection like heavy bleeding or fever require immediate medical attention. Emotional recovery is just as vital. Many women face postpartum depression (PPD), which may manifest as sadness, detachment from others, trouble bonding with existing children, or sleep disturbances. Seeking help from a counselor or mental health professional is essential during this period.
For those planning another pregnancy, it’s crucial to take time for recovery. Monitoring and managing health conditions like blood pressure or thyroid function is important to reduce the risk in future pregnancies. A six-month waiting period is generally advised before trying to conceive again, allowing the body and mind to heal and lowering the chances of complications such as preterm birth or low birth weight.
