Understanding Stillbirth Causes

Introduction

A stillbirth, a tragic event where a baby dies in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before birth, can have various causes. Some common factors contributing to stillbirth include placental problems, fetal abnormalities, maternal health conditions, infections during pregnancy, issues with the umbilical cord, preterm labour, pregnancy complications, lifestyle factors, multiple pregnancies, and advanced maternal age.

Read on: If you're interested in delving deeper into the topic of stillbirth, I have more valuable information to share with you. Understanding the causes of stillbirth is crucial to improving prevention and support for affected families. Let's explore this important subject further to enhance our knowledge and awareness.

The exact causes of stillbirth can be complex and may not always be fully understood, but here are some common factors that can contribute to stillbirth: 

• Placental problems: Issues with the placenta, such as placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus), placenta previa (placenta covers the cervix), or placental insufficiency (poor function of the placenta), can lead to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby. 
• Fetal abnormalities: Structural abnormalities or genetic disorders in the baby can increase the risk of stillbirth. 
• Maternal health conditions: Certain medical conditions in the mother, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, infections (e.g., urinary tract infections), and autoimmune disorders, can increase the risk of stillbirth. Infections: Infections during pregnancy, including bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, can lead to complications and increase the risk of stillbirth. 
• Umbilical cord issues: Problems with the umbilical cord, such as a knot in the cord or compression, can restrict blood flow to the baby. 
• Preterm labour: Preterm labour or premature birth before 37 weeks can result in stillbirth. 
• Pregnancy complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and intrauterine growth restriction can increase the risk of stillbirth. 
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption, can elevate the risk of stillbirth. 
• Multiple pregnancies: Twins, triplets, or higher-order pregnancies carry a higher risk of stillbirth. 
• Advanced maternal age: Pregnancy at an older age, usually above 35, is associated with a slightly higher risk of stillbirth. 

It's important to note that many stillbirths occur without any apparent cause, even after thorough investigations. If you or someone you know has experienced a stillbirth, seeking support from healthcare professionals and counselling services can be beneficial in coping with the emotional toll. Research and medical understanding of stillbirth are continuously evolving to improve prevention and support for affected families.¹

Risk factors

Risk factors for stillbirth are factors that can increase the likelihood of a baby dying in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before birth. Some common risk factors include:

• Advanced maternal age: Pregnancy at an older age, typically above 35, is associated with a slightly higher risk of stillbirth.
• Previous stillbirth: Women who have experienced a previous stillbirth are at increased risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies.
• Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more (multiple gestations) increases the risk of stillbirth.
• Medical conditions: Certain maternal health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, and blood clotting disorders, can elevate the risk of stillbirth.
• Infections: Infections during pregnancy, including bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, can lead to complications and increase the risk of stillbirth.
• Placental problems: Issues with the placenta, such as placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus), placenta previa (placenta covers the cervix), or placental insufficiency (poor function of the placenta), can lead to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
• Fetal abnormalities: Structural abnormalities or genetic disorders in the baby can increase the risk of stillbirth.
• Umbilical cord issues: Problems with the umbilical cord, such as a knot in the cord or compression, can restrict blood flow to the baby.
• Preterm labour: Preterm labour or premature birth before 37 weeks can result in stillbirth.
• Pregnancy complications: Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and intrauterine growth restriction can increase the risk of stillbirth.
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption, can elevate the risk of stillbirth.
• Socioeconomic factors: Inadequate access to healthcare, poor nutrition, and limited resources can also contribute to an increased risk of stillbirth in some cases.

It's important to note that the presence of one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a stillbirth will occur. Many stillbirths happen without any apparent cause. If you are concerned about your pregnancy or have specific risk factors, discussing them with your healthcare provider is essential to receive appropriate monitoring and care throughout your pregnancy².

Reducing the risk of stillbirth

Reducing the risk of stillbirth is essential for promoting a healthy pregnancy and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby. While it may not always be possible to prevent stillbirth completely, there are several measures that pregnant women can take to lower their risk:

• Regular prenatal care: Attending all scheduled prenatal check-ups is crucial for monitoring the baby's growth and detecting any potential issues early on.
• Avoid smoking, drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption: These habits are associated with an increased risk of stillbirth and should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active with appropriate exercises, and getting enough rest can contribute to a healthier pregnancy.
• Manage pre-existing medical conditions: If you have any chronic health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions during pregnancy.
• Control weight gain: Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications, including stillbirth. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance on appropriate weight gain.
• Avoid certain medications and herbal supplements: Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications or herbal supplements during pregnancy, as some may pose risks to the baby.
• Manage stress: High levels of stress can be detrimental to pregnancy. Seek support, practice relaxation techniques, and engage in activities that promote emotional well-being.
• Address infections promptly: If you suspect any infections during pregnancy, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
• Address pregnancy complications: If any complications arise during pregnancy, follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for managing and treating them.

Remember, while these measures can help reduce the risk of stillbirth, not all stillbirths can be prevented. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or are at a higher risk for stillbirth, don't hesitate to discuss your situation with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice and care.³

Signs 

Signs of stillbirth can vary, and in some cases, there may be no obvious signs. However, some common indicators include:

• Decreased fetal movement: A noticeable reduction in the baby's movements can be a potential sign. If you notice a significant decrease or absence of fetal movement, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• No fetal heartbeat: During a prenatal check-up, the healthcare provider may be unable to detect a fetal heartbeat, indicating a potential stillbirth.
• Vaginal bleeding: In some cases, vaginal bleeding may occur, although this can also be a sign of other pregnancy complications.
• Changes in fetal size: A sudden decrease or lack of growth in the baby's size, as measured by ultrasound, may be a sign of stillbirth.
• Absence of other pregnancy symptoms: Women may notice a sudden absence of typical pregnancy symptoms like nausea, breast tenderness, or uterine contractions.
• Intuition or gut feeling: Some women may have a feeling that something is wrong, based on their intuition and emotional connection with the baby.

If you experience any of these signs or have concerns about your pregnancy, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider, even if you are unsure or feel that something might be wrong. Early detection and medical intervention can be critical in assessing the situation and providing appropriate care.⁴

Support

Support after stillbirth is vital for parents and families who have experienced this devastating loss. Coping with the emotional toll of stillbirth can be incredibly challenging, and having a strong support system can help individuals navigate through their grief. Here are some essential sources of support:

• Medical professionals: Healthcare providers and hospital staff can offer emotional support and guidance during the immediate aftermath of stillbirth. They can also provide information about the possible causes and help with making decisions about post-mortem examinations, burial arrangements, and future pregnancies.
• Counselling and therapy: Grief counselling, support groups, or therapy sessions specifically tailored for parents who have experienced stillbirths can be beneficial. These services provide a safe space for expressing feelings, processing emotions, and finding coping mechanisms.
• Friends and family: Loved ones can offer emotional support, lend a listening ear, and provide practical assistance during this difficult time. Having a network of caring individuals can help parents feel less isolated in their grief.
• Online support communities: There are online forums and support groups where parents who have experienced stillbirth can connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. These platforms can provide a sense of community and understanding.
• Religious or spiritual support: For those who find comfort in their faith, seeking support from religious or spiritual leaders can be valuable in coping with grief and finding solace.
• Memorial services and rituals: Holding memorial services or creating rituals to honour the baby's memory can be meaningful for parents and families.
• Self-care and time: Giving oneself time to grieve and practising self-care are crucial aspects of healing after stillbirth. Parents should be patient with themselves and allow themselves to process emotions at their own pace.
• Professional grief support organizations: Some organizations specialise in supporting individuals who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. These organizations offer resources, educational materials, and additional support.

It's important to recognise that everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way to mourn the loss of a baby. Seeking support from multiple sources can be helpful in navigating the grief journey and finding a path towards healing and acceptance.

Summary 

Understanding stillbirths is essential as it involves the tragic event of a baby's death in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before birth. The exact causes of stillbirth can be complex and may not always be fully understood, but various factors such as placental problems, fetal abnormalities, maternal health conditions, infections, and lifestyle choices can contribute to the risk. Reducing risk factors, seeking regular prenatal care, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help promote a healthier pregnancy outcome. Early detection and support are crucial for affected families coping with the emotional toll of stillbirth.