Stillbirth

This article covers:

What is stillbirth?

What are stillbirth causes?

Can stillbirths be prevented?

Coping with stillbirth 

Post-mortem

Registering a stillbirth

Pregnancy after stillbirth

Supporting somebody whose baby has died

Further information

What is stillbirth?

A stillborn baby is a baby born after the 24th week of pregnancy who does not show any signs of life. If the baby dies in the womb, it is known as an intra-uterine stillbirth. If the baby dies during labour, it is called an intra-partum stillbirth. If a baby has died in the womb, labour is usually induced.

In the UK, there are around five stillborn babies out of every 1,000 births.

After a stillbirth, the mother and her partner will be able to have some quiet time to hold their baby and, if they want, to take a photograph. The idea of this may sound frightening but many parents say the time spent with their baby is very precious.

What are stillbirth causes?

Conditions that we do know can lead to stillbirth include:

• a genetic physical defect with the baby
• when the placenta separates from the womb too early
• pre-eclampsia, or pregnancy-induced hypertension
• a birth complication that reduces the supply of oxygen to the baby
• an infection during pregnancy, such as listeriosis or some viral infections.

There are also a number of factors among parents that are associated with a higher risk of stillbirth. These include:

• having twins or a multiple pregnancy
• being younger than 20 or older than 40
• having diabetes, high blood pressure or a blood-clotting disorder
• being a smoker or being exposed to tobacco smoke
• being obese.

However, most stillbirths are unexplained.

Can stillbirths be prevented?

We don't know the reasons for most stillbirths. But if you are expecting a baby, it is a good idea to follow the advice from your midwife or GP, which will help to reduce the risk and keep your baby healthy. Actions include:

• Stopping smoking.
• Telling your midwife about any stomach pain or vaginal bleeding.
• Protecting yourself against infection.
• Asking your midwife for information about avoiding certain foods.
• Attending all your antenatal appointments. 
• Monitoring your baby's movements towards the end of pregnancy, if your midwife advises it.

A change in how you feel, or your baby’s movements or growth pattern may be a warning sign that tests are needed. Making sure you attend all your antenatal appointments will help your midwife or GP to monitor the size of your baby. You can also discuss the pattern of your baby’s movements so you can be aware of any changes that need investigating. You will also be offered a series of checks to detect and treat any illnesses or conditions, such as pre-eclampsia, that may cause complications for you or your baby.

Coping with stillbirth

Having a stillborn baby is an experience that is almost unimaginably painful for parents, and grief for your baby can take a number of forms. The hospital or your GP can refer you for counselling, which many parents find a great source of help. The hospital may also help you put together a special memory pack. In addition, some parents decide to make a book of dedication or memorial garden, or hold a remembrance service. Further sources of support are given below.

Post-mortem

The mother is usually asked to give her permission for a post-mortem to be carried out on her stillborn baby. This can be a very difficult decision with some people wanting to try to find out why their baby died and others wanting their baby to be left in peace. It cannot be done without your consent.

Registering a stillbirth

Registering a stillbirth gives you an opportunity to acknowledge your child's birth and is also important for statistical records. Stillbirths should normally be registered at the hospital or at the local register office within 42 days, and not more than three months after the event.

Pregnancy after stillbirth

There is no evidence about the best time to try to conceive another baby after stillbirth, and you may find health professionals and family and friends offer conflicting advice. Ultimately the decision is up to you and your partner. You may, however, like to talk things through with your GP or obstetrician before trying again.

Being pregnant again may, understandably, be a very anxious time and you may find it helpful to talk to someone about your fears (see Further information). You should also tell medical staff about any concerns you have about your pregnancy so that they can run checks and offer reassurance.

Supporting somebody whose baby has died

It can be very difficult to know how best to support and show sympathy with a friend who has suffered a stillbirth, especially if you are pregnant or have a baby yourself. The main things to bear in mind are:

• Don't avoid contact - bereaved parents can get very isolated.
• Do acknowledge their baby's death, by card, email or text.
• Use the baby's name if one was given.
• Listen if a parent wants to talk.

It’s best to take your cues from the parents. Some want to see other people - others can't bear to be with pregnant women or new babies.

Further information

Many hospitals and most GPs can refer parents for counselling following stillbirth. 

The national charity Sands (Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Charity) runs a helpline, provides information and funds research into the causes of stillbirth. Call the helpline on 020 7436 5881 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday or email the confidential email helpline: helpline@uk-sands.org.  

NCT's helpline offers practical and emotional support in all areas of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood: 0300 330 0700.

NCT’s Shared Experiences helpline  can also be a useful source of support. The helpline can put anyone who has had a challenging experience of pregnancy, birth or early parenthood, in touch with someone who has had had a similar experience to listen to their concerns and share their stories. Call on 0300 330 0774, 9am – 3pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, or leave a message outside these hours.