Stillbirth refers to the death of a fetus at or after the 20th week of pregnancy.
Research has found risk factors, such as the age of a pregnant person, and causes, such as genetic problems, for some stillbirths. However, in many cases, the cause remains unknown even after an autopsy and other follow-up tests. Some stillbirths may be preventable, but most are not.
NICHD supports and conducts research on many aspects of stillbirth, including mechanisms, causes, risk factors, possible prevention and intervention approaches, and how often it happens.
General Information
Stillbirth refers to the death of a fetus at or after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It can occur in the womb or during labor and delivery.
Several factors influence the risk for stillbirth. These differ depending on where you live in the world, and many of them cannot be changed to reduce risk.
Research shows several possible causes of stillbirth, including problems with the placenta, birth defects, and infection. However, the cause of many stillbirths remains unknown.
Health care providers use different methods to diagnose stillbirth, depending on the stage of pregnancy and whether labor has already started.
Management of stillbirth varies but typically includes removing the deceased fetus from the womb, identifying the possible cause of the stillbirth, and supporting the family.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on many aspects of stillbirth, including its mechanisms, risk factors, prevention, and immediate and long-term care for families that experience stillbirth.
Find a Study
Learn about NICHD’s clinical research projects related to stillbirth.
More Information
Find answers to other common questions about stillbirth, such as ways to reduce the risk of stillbirth and how to find care after a stillbirth.
Links to websites of groups that study stillbirth or provide information or support related to stillbirth.
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