What causes a stillbirth?
In 1 in 3 stillbirths, healthcare providers don’t know why the fetus passed. Causes can be complex. Issues primarily affecting the mother (gestational parent), the fetus, or the tissues and organs connecting them can all lead to stillbirth.
Infections
Infections from a virus, parasite, bacteria or another pathogen (germ) cause up to 50% of stillbirths in developing countries. They cause up to 25% of stillbirths in developed countries. Sometimes, the infection doesn’t cause symptoms, so you don’t know there’s an issue until a pregnancy complication happens.
Access to high-quality prenatal care can often reduce the risk of stillbirths related to infections.
Problems with the placenta or umbilical cord
Theplacenta is an organ that allows you to share nutrients with the fetus via the umbilical cord. A problem with these lifelines can prevent the fetus from receiving the oxygen, blood and nutrients needed to thrive.
Placental abruption is when the placenta separates from your uterus. It’s responsible for 10% to 20% of all stillbirths. A twisted umbilical cord can lead to a stillbirth if it prevents the fetus from getting enough oxygen. It causes up to 10% of stillbirths.
Conditions affecting the fetus
Sometimes, there’s an issue with how the fetus develops, or a congenital disability (birth defect). The fetus may have a genetic condition.Genes contain the instructions that tell the fetus’s body how to grow and work. Errors in these instructions can prevent the fetus’s organs from growing and working properly.
The fetus may not get the nutrition it needs to grow at a healthy rate. This is calledintrauterine growth restriction. It’s a common cause of stillbirths.
Pregnancy complications
You’re more likely to experience problems during pregnancy if you have a chronic health condition, like diabetes, lupus, high blood pressure, obesity or a blood clotting disorder.
Still, having a chronic condition doesn’t mean you’ll experience complications. A provider can help you manage chronic conditions and keep tabs on your health to reduce your risk.
Pregnancy complications that may lead to stillbirth include:
- Preeclampsia: High blood pressure that starts during the second half of pregnancy.
- Cholestasis of pregnancy: A form of liver disease that develops late in pregnancy.
- Premature birth: When a baby’s born prematurely (before 37 weeks of pregnancy).
- Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM): When the fluid-filled protective sac surrounding the fetus breaks too early.
What are the symptoms of stillbirth?
Often, the only warning sign of stillbirth is noticing the fetus isn’t as active as it used to be. Some people experience cramps and vagin*l bleeding.
These symptoms don’t always mean a stillbirth, but you should see a provider immediately if you notice these changes.
