What it means
Loss before 20 weeks is called a miscarriage. Stillbirth is also called intrauterine fetal demise. Causes include problems with the placenta or cord, birth defects, infection and conditions in the pregnant person such as high blood pressure and diabetes; often no cause is found.
For the nurse
Use the baby's name if the parents have given one, offer time to hold the baby and keepsakes such as footprints and photos, and respect cultural and religious wishes.
At a glance
| Spanish | mortinato, muerte fetal |
|---|---|
| Also written | stillbirths, stillborn |
Related terms
intrauterine growth restriction
Slower than expected growth of a fetus in the uterus, with an estimated weight below the 10th percentile for its age.
bereavement
The period of grief and mourning after the death of someone close.