What are some causes of stillbirths that could have been treated?

Sadly, there are many causes of stillbirths that could have been prevented, some which are common and others which are not as common.  There are also many stillbirths for which no cause is ever known. There are known risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a stillbirth, so being aware of any risk factors you may have and taking steps to make sure you are being properly treated and monitored during pregnancy is important. Two common risk factors that can result in stillbirth include high blood pressure and either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes that was present prior to the pregnancy.

Diabetes that is not controlled or properly treated, especially during the last trimester of the pregnancy can result in damage to the placenta which can cause a fatal decrease in oxygen and nutrients for the baby.

If you have had previous miscarriages or stillbirths you are at a higher risk of another still birth, and your health care provider should be aware of this and monitoring you closely throughout your pregnancy. Also, if you experience any vaginal bleeding during your pregnancy you should report it immediately to your doctor.

Some less common causes of stillbirth which can be prevented include Rh disease, which occurs when there is a blood type incompatibility between the mother and the baby, German measles, Fifth disease and also Lyme disease.

Seek Help

If you are experiencing a high risk pregnancy and believe that you are not being treated or monitored properly by your doctor, you should seek a second opinion immediately. If you have already suffered the tragedy of a stillbirth and you feel that it could have and should have been prevented, contact an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice. He or she can meet with you, listen to your story and begin a review of the evidence to let you know if they think you have a valid case.