Stillbirth Causes and Risk Factors - Understanding the Death of a Baby
Should Fetal Autopsy Be Performed After a Stillbirth?
Find out what kind of information one can obtain from a fetal autopsy to determine the cause of a stillbirth.
Does a Nuchal Cord Cause Increased Risk of Stillbirth?
The condition of nuchal cord, or an umbilical cord wrapped around the unborn baby's neck, is surprisingly common. Research suggests that the condition usually does not cause serious problems during pregnancy or delivery.
When Should I Worry Over a Baby Not Moving As Much As Usual?
If you are worried your baby is not moving as much as usual or have other concerns about decreased fetal movement, call your doctor right away for advice.
Umbilical Cord Accidents and Stillbirth
An umbilical cord accident means something happened to disrupt the blood flow to the baby during pregnancy, possibly causing stillbirth or disabilities such as cerebral palsy. Unfortunately, umbilical cord accidents usually cannot be prevented.
Vasa Previa
Vasa previa is a potentially devastating pregnancy complication in which fetal blood vessels grow across the cervix and can rupture during labor. Vasa previa may involve velamentous insertion of the umbilical cord and can develop in association with placenta previa. Undetected vasa previa can lead to stillbirth or infant loss.
Viruses May Play Larger Role in Causing Stillbirths Than Previously Thought
An Australian research team has found evidence that common viruses, such as cytomegalovirus, may be a more prevalent cause of stillbirth than has been previously believed.
PPROM - Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes
Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) means that the mom's amniotic sac is leaking (aka the water breaking) before she is actually in labor. Preterm PROM (PPROM) is when this occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy. PPROM is a risk factor for stillbirth and preterm infant loss.
Placenta Previa
Placenta previa is the term for a placenta that is implanted low in the uterus. Undetected placenta previa can mean an increased risk for late pregnancy loss, but with monitoring and intervention (when needed) there are usually no long term problems for the baby.
Placental Abruption
Placental abruption, also called abruptio placenta, is a condition in which the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before the baby is born. Severe placental abruption is a major risk factor for stillbirth and preterm delivery.
Stillbirth Causes - Why Babies Die During Pregnancy
Giving birth to a stillborn baby is every pregnant woman's worst nightmare. When it does happen, it's natural to want to understand why. Unfortunately, answers are rarely to be found -- more than 70% of stillbirths are never explained. Doctors theorize that the majority of stillbirths probably have something to…
