Stillbirth Flashcards
1
Q
What is stillbirth?
A
Birth of a dead foetus after 24 weeks gestation (Result of Intrauterine foetal death)
2
Q
How common is stillbirth
A
1 in 200 pregnancies
3
Q
What are some causes of stillbirth
A
- Unexplained (around 50%)
- Pre-eclampsia
- Placental abruption
- Vasa praevia
- Cord prolapse or wrapped around the fetal neck
- Obstetric cholestasis
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disease
- Infections, such as rubella, parvovirus and listeria
- Genetic abnormalities or congenital malformations
4
Q
What are some risk factors for stillbirth
A
- Foetal growth restriction
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Increased maternal age
- Maternal obesity
- Twins
- Sleeping on the back (as opposed to either side)
5
Q
What investigations are required in stillbirth?
A
USS
Kleihauer test and rhesus testing
6
Q
How is stillbirth managed
A
Vaginal birth with induction of labour or expectant management
Dopamine agonists (E.g. cabergoline) to suppress lactation
