Stillbirth Prevention
Stillbirth is typically defined in the United States as the loss of a baby at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later. Each year, more than 20,000 babies are stillborn in the U.S.—approximately 1 in every 175–185 pregnancies.
While medical advances have significantly reduced stillbirth rates since the mid-1900s, progress has slowed in recent decades, and stillbirth remains a major public health issue that affects thousands of families every year.
Many stillbirths cannot currently be prevented, and grieving parents should never carry blame for the loss of their baby. At the same time, research shows that increased awareness, continued medical research, fetal movement education, and advocacy for evidence-based care may help reduce some preventable losses.
On this page, we’ve gathered information and trusted resources related to stillbirth causes, risk factors, fetal movement awareness, umbilical cord complications, placental issues, maternal health conditions, and ongoing prevention efforts—all shared with the goal of compassionate education, not fear.
Causes of Stillbirth
Placental Problems
The placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby. Problems with placental function can significantly increase the risk of stillbirth.
Examples:
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placental insufficiency
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placental abruption
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blood flow abnormalities
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inflammation or infection of the placenta
Some studies suggest placental issues are involved in a large proportion of stillbirths, especially after 24 weeks.
Information on prevention:
Umbilical Cord Complications
Umbilical cord problems can sometimes interrupt oxygen or blood flow to the baby.
Examples:
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cord compression
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true knots
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cord prolapse
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hyper-coiled cords
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ruptured cord vessels
The NIH notes that cord problems are more commonly associated with term stillbirths and losses occurring during labor and delivery. Some studies estimate cord-related complications contribute to approximately 10% of stillbirths, though estimates vary depending on diagnostic criteria.
Information on prevention:
Genetic & Congenital Conditions
Some stillbirths occur because of chromosomal or structural abnormalities in the baby.
Examples:
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trisomy 18
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trisomy 13
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severe neural tube defects
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genetic syndromes
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major organ malformations
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Research suggests chromosomal abnormalities may be present in approximately 6–13% of stillbirths overall, with higher rates when fetal abnormalities are identified.
Information on prevention: