Risk Factors for Stillbirth
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of stillbirth in pregnancy. Some of the most common include advanced maternal age (over 35), obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Other risk factors include chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders, as well as fetal abnormalities and genetic disorders. Additionally, women who have experienced previous stillbirths or preterm labor may be at an increased risk for stillbirth in subsequent pregnancies.
Warning Signs of Stillbirth
While stillbirth can occur without warning, there are several signs that expectant mothers should be aware of. One of the most common warning signs is a decrease in fetal movement. If a baby has been active and suddenly becomes less active or stops moving altogether, this may indicate a problem and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Other warning signs may include vaginal bleeding or discharge, abdominal pain, or contractions.
Preventing Stillbirth
Although not all cases of stillbirth can be prevented, there are several steps that expectant mothers and healthcare providers can take to reduce the risk. One of the most important steps is to attend all scheduled prenatal appointments and follow recommended screening and testing protocols. This may include regular ultrasounds and fetal monitoring to detect potential problems early on.
Other preventative measures may include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding risky behaviors such as smoking and alcohol consumption, and managing chronic medical conditions with the guidance of a healthcare provider. Additionally, women who have previously experienced stillbirth or preterm labor may benefit from additional monitoring and interventions, such as cervical cerclage or progesterone therapy.
In some cases, stillbirth may be caused by complications during labor and delivery. To reduce the risk of these complications, it is important for expectant mothers to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a birth plan and discuss any concerns or preferences they may have.
By attending regular prenatal appointments, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and working closely with healthcare providers to develop a birth plan, expectant mothers can reduce the risk of stillbirth and ensure the best possible outcome for themselves and their babies.
, stillbirth occurs in approximately 2% of all pregnancies globally, with more than 2.6 million babies stillborn each year){kind=link}