This website is dedicated to stillbirth research funding, encouraging advocacy, raising awareness to the general public, and educating expectant parents on possible ways to prevent such catastrophes, in hopes of decreasing the number of babies that are gone too soon.
Stillbirth is a term used to define fetal death or fetal demise later on in pregnancy, starting at > 20 weeks of gestation, according to the United States National Center for Health Statistics. Stillbirth differs from miscarriage in that the latter refers to pregnancy loss at < 20 weeks of gestation.
In the United States, stillbirth occurs in about 1 out of every 160 pregnancies. that is approximately 26,000 stillbirths per year.
EMILIA GRACE'S STORY
One day she was kicking very strongly and the next she was quiet. What I learned at the doctor's visit, shattered my world and heart into pieces.
Maternal observation of fetal movement is comforting for pregnant women, while decreased fetal movement is a general cause for concern. Fetal activity can be noticed as early as 7-8 weeks of gestation with an ultrasound. Maternal perception of fetal movement usually starts in the second trimester, as early as 16-20 weeks. A gentle flutter is a typical description of a mother's first perception of fetal movement, which eventually becomes stronger, increases throughout the day, and peaks late at night.
The grief that ensues after a baby's loss, a time that is supposed to be one of the happiest periods of one's life, is immeasurable. The provided information on local support groups will help grieving parents get through this dreadful journey.
Perhaps some people don't know what to say or do in such circumstances to comfort grieving parents. There are no words to use to describe this tragedy. Please consider the following things to say or avoid and sweet gestures to make.
The silence on stillbirth must end or advances in discovering possible causes won't be found. Getting involved means being an advocate, whether you're a parent of a stillborn baby or not. Be proactive, share information, and consider donating to help fund research studies.
