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| Definition: |
Birth of a dead fetus. Death occurring before or during birth of a fetus of sufficient size and age to be otherwise expected to survive.
Stillbirths may be due to maternal factors, fetal factors, or uterine factors. Injuries, illnesses (such as toxemia), infections, or catastrophic events (such as hemorrhage, or cardiac arrest) would of course affect both mother and child. Birth defects and growth abnormalities of the fetus can occur. Uterine factors (such as placental detachment, placental obstruction, or restricted uterine growth) can prove dangerous to the fetus. See miscarriage.
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| Alternative Names: |
Stillborn
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Review Date: 10/10/2001
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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