Stillbirth Essay

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Stillbirth

Stillbirth, also called intrauterine fetal demise, is the loss of a baby after 20 weeks of pregnancy and before or during delivery. A stillborn baby does not show any signs of life, such as a heartbeat or breathing. Usually, there is nothing that can be done to prevent stillbirth.

WHAT CAUSES STILLBIRTH?
Often the cause is unknown. Sometimes stillbirth is caused by:
• An abnormality in the umbilical cord.
• An abnormality in the placenta.
• A birth defect, genetic disorder, or severe infection in the baby that causes him or her to develop abnormally.

WHAT INCREASES THE RISK OF STILLBIRTH?
The risk of stillbirth is increased if:
• You have a medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
• You use illegal …show more content…

Stillbirth is confirmed through a physical exam by your health care provider, and other tests such as an ultrasound or amniotic fluid study.

HOW WILL MY BABY BE DELIVERED?
Most stillborn babies are delivered vaginally. Occasionally, a stillborn baby may be delivered by cesarean section.
You may be able to choose to start labor artificially (labor induction) or to allow labor to begin naturally. If you choose to allow labor to begin naturally, labor should begin within two weeks of the baby 's death. If it does not, you will need a labor induction.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER DELIVERY?
• Parents are encouraged to hold their baby. You may bathe your baby, dress your baby, and sing or talk to your baby. Doing these things is normal and may help you feel close to your child. It may also help grieve and gain closure.
• Your baby may be examined to determine if problems were present that could recur in a future pregnancy.
• If you lost your baby because of an infection, you may be given medicine to treat the infection.
• You can expect to experience typical postpartum body changes such as vaginal blood loss for up to 6 weeks after delivery and breastmilk production. Your health care provider will help you manage these

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