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Still birth and neonatal death

The loss of a baby through stillbirth or neonatal death can have devastating impacts on parents and families causing feelings of grief, shock and sadness which can affect every aspect of your life. A baby that shows no sign of life after 20 weeks of pregnancy is known as a stillbirth and neonatal death occurs when a baby dies within the first 28 days after the birth.

Although in most cases, the cause of stillbirth cannot be established without the assessment of a post-mortem, possible causes could include congenital anomalies, premature birth, complications with the mother’s health or problems with the placenta or umbilical cord.

Following the death of a baby, parents may have to make some difficult decisions and wonder if their feelings are normal and how long they will last. There is support and information available to help you through this difficult time.

For more information;

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – What is a stillbirth

For information and support services;

SANDS – Stillbirth and Newborn Death

Red Nose

Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand