Stillbirth

Stillbirths are one of the most upsetting and traumatic experiences to go through but luckily are quite rare these days. In the UK, around 40,00 babies are born prematurely every year, one in four women miscarry and 1 in 150 babies are stillborn.

What Is A Stillbirth?

A stillbirth is when your baby is born after the 24th week of pregnancy and after being born does not breathe or show any sign of life.

How Will I Know If My Baby Has Died?

There are many signs that may signify that your baby has died inside the womb:-

• no movement from your baby
• weight loss
• the feeling that you are not pregnant anymore
• it may also be picked up on one of your scans

Why Does Stillbirth Happen?

There is not always an answer to this question. In some cases the baby dies due to:

• genetic or fetal defects.
• problems with the umbilical cord
• fetal infection

There will normally be a post mortem to establish the cause of death.

What Happens Once It Has Been Established My Baby Has Died?

You will be taken into hospital and either your GP or midwife will talk you through the process of inducing labour. Once your baby has been born you will be asked whether or not you would like to hold them. You can also take a photograph if you would like to.

Will I Be Able To Have A Funeral For My Baby?

If you baby has died after 24 weeks of pregnancy, a death certificate will be issued. It will then be down to you to decide whether or not you want your baby buried or cremated.

How Will I Cope With The Grief Of Losing My Baby?

Everyone grieves differently, you may go through many different stages of grief from anger to despair. You may have to cope with both your own grief as well as your partners. Try to accept that both you and your partner may grief differently. There are many organisations that can help you through this time, alternatively you can talk to your midwife or GP.

Will I Be Able To Get Pregnant Again?

Yes, you should be able to get pregnant again, but you may want to let your body recover and rest before trying to get pregnant again. It would be best to discuss this with your GP or midwife

Click on this link to read our related article about the Death Of A Child