Stillbirth: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Stillbirth is when a baby is born without signs of life after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is a heartbreaking event for families and can have significant emotional and psychological impacts. Stillbirth affects about 1 in 160 pregnancies, making it more common than many people realize. Understanding the risk factors and seeking appropriate prenatal care can help reduce the chances of stillbirth. If you have concerns about stillbirth or have experienced one, talking to your healthcare provider is essential for support and guidance.

Causes of Stillbirth

Several factors can contribute to the development of stillbirth. These can include:

• Maternal health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
• Placental problems affecting blood flow to the baby
• Fetal abnormalities or genetic issues
• Infections during pregnancy
• Umbilical cord complications
• Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia

Symptoms of Stillbirth

Recognizing the symptoms of stillbirth is crucial as early detection can significantly impact outcomes. Some signs to look out for include:

• Decreased fetal movement
• No fetal heartbeat
• Spotting or bleeding
• Uterine contractions

Being aware of these symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention can help in timely intervention and management, potentially preventing adverse outcomes. Regular prenatal check-ups and fetal monitoring are essential for detecting any potential issues early on.

Diagnosis of Stillbirth

Diagnosing stillbirth is crucial for understanding the cause and preventing future occurrences. A thorough diagnostic process helps provide closure to families and guides medical management. Diagnostic methods include:

• Reviewing medical history and conducting physical exams
• Ultrasound imaging to assess fetal wellbeing
• Measuring fetal heart rate
• Blood tests to check for infections or genetic issues
• Placental examination to identify abnormalities

Treatment Options for Stillbirth

When addressing stillbirth, individualized care is crucial. Different approaches to treating stillbirth include:

1. Expectant Management

• It involves closely monitoring the mother's health and waiting for spontaneous delivery.
• This approach allows for natural completion of the pregnancy without intervention.
• The primary objective is to ensure the safety and well-being of the mother while awaiting labor.
• Monitoring the mother's physical and emotional health, as well as fetal well-being, is essential.

2. Labor Induction

• Inducing labor through medication or other methods to deliver the baby.
• This approach is chosen to prevent complications for the mother due to prolonged retention of the fetus.
• The primary objective is to safely deliver the baby and prevent maternal health risks.
• It involves administering medications like oxytocin to stimulate contractions and initiate labor.

3. Surgical Delivery (Cesarean Section)

• A surgical procedure to remove the baby from the uterus.
• Indicated in cases where vaginal delivery may pose risks to the mother's health.
• The primary objective is to ensure a safe delivery for both the mother and the baby.
• It involves making an incision in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby.

Prevention and Management of Stillbirth

Making lifestyle changes and taking proactive measures can play a significant role in preventing or managing stillbirth. By focusing on lifestyle modifications, regular screenings, and supportive care, you can reduce the risk and enhance the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs.
• Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Regular Screenings:

• Attend prenatal check-ups as scheduled by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor fetal movements and report any changes to your doctor.
• Undergo routine ultrasounds and other recommended tests.
• Discuss any concerns with your healthcare team promptly.

Supportive Care:

• Seek emotional support from loved ones or a counselor.
• Join a support group for women who have experienced stillbirth.
• Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your feelings.
• Consider genetic counseling if there are known risk factors.

If you’ve been having any symptoms or worries about stillbirth, please reach out to our doctors. They will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.