Can stillbirth be prevented?
Improvements in medicine have decreased the number of stillbirths. In fact, according to the March of Dimes, “over the past twenty years, stillbirths have declined by nearly 50 percent.” Today women with high-risk pregnancies are carefully monitored through routine ultrasounds and or fetal heart rate monitoring. If potential problems are identified, early delivery may be necessary. The following are steps you can take to help prevent stillbirth: A daily “kick count.” Starting at 26 weeks of pregnancy, take time each day to record your baby’s movements. If you familiarize yourself with what is normal for your baby, then you are more likely to notice when something does not feel right. If you notice a sudden decrease in movements, contact your health care provider. An ultrasound can normally confirm if there are any potential problems. Avoid drugs, alcohol and smoking as these can increase your risk of stillbirth and other pregnancy complications. Contact your health care provider immedi
