What causes stillbirth at 40weeks?

Causes - Stillbirth


Complications with the placenta

Many stillbirths are linked to complications with the placenta. The placenta is the organ that links the baby's blood supply to the mother's and nourishes the baby in the womb.

If there have been problems with the placenta, stillborn babies are usually born perfectly formed, although often small.

With more research, it's hoped that placental causes may be better understood, leading to improved detection and better care for these babies.
Other causes of stillbirth

Other conditions that can cause or may be associated with stillbirth include:

* bleeding (haemorrhage) before or during labour

* placental abruption – where the placenta separates from the womb before the baby is born (there may be bleeding or abdominal pain)

* pre-eclampsia – a condition that causes high blood pressure in the mother

* a problem with the umbilical cord, which attaches the placenta to the baby's tummy button – the cord can slip down through the entrance of the womb before the baby is born (cord prolapse) or can be wrapped around the baby and become knotted

* intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) or obstetric cholestasis – a liver disorder associated with severe itching during pregnancy

* a genetic physical defect in the baby

* pre-existing diabetes

* an infection in the mother that also affects the baby