Data | Still June

Stillbirth Statistics

A stillbirth is defined by the CDC and many US organizations as the death of a fetus 20+ weeks gestation, the World Health Organization (WHO) often uses 28+ weeks for international comparisons. It is distinct from miscarriage (which occurs earlier.) Stillbirth represents a loss after the fetus has developed significantly.

Fact: Most women who have a stillbirth are able to have a healthy baby in their next pregnancy, with over 90% chance of a successful future pregnancy, notes WebMD. To see more facts hover over each picture below. Facts provided by [National Institute of Health (.gov)]

Data

Total Annual Stillbirths: Over 20,000–21,000 babies are born still each year in the U.S.
Rate: While the CDC reported a rate of 1 in 175 pregnancies, a major study released in October 2025, which analyzed insurance claims, found that the rate is actually higher, at 1 in 150 pregnancies.

Disparities: The rate is higher in lower-income areas (1 in 112) and even higher for Black families (1 in 95).
Unknown Causes: Approximately 30% of stillbirths in the U.S. occur with no identified clinical risk factors

What is the Cause?

While the cause of stillbirth is unknown , there are a variety of factors. Key causes include but are not limited to:

Umbilical Cord Accidents: Complications such as a knot, compression, or cord prolapse can cut off the baby's oxygen supply, accounting for up to 10% of cases.
Fetal Abnormalities: Genetic or physical structural abnormalities can cause stillbirth, often in the second trimester.
Maternal Health Conditions: Pre-existing or gestational diabetes, high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia), and autoimmune diseases like lupus can increase risk

Placental Issues: The most common cause (up to 65% of cases), including placental insufficiency (not providing enough nutrients) or placental abruption (detaching from the uterus).
Infections: Infections in the parent or baby

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Warning Signs

Reduced Fetal Movement: The most common sign is a decrease or complete stop in baby kicks, flutters, or rolls.
Vaginal Bleeding or Fluid Loss: Spotting, bleeding, or unusual fluid leakage.
Persistent Abdominal Pain/Cramping: New, intense, or changing pain.
Severe Itching: Constant itching, especially on palms and soles, can indicate complications like cholestasis.
Maternal Illness Symptoms: High fever, vomiting, dizziness, or blurry vision.
Sudden Swelling: Significant swelling of the face, hands, or feet.
Intuition: A feeling that something is wrong or a change in the sensation of the pregnancy bump.

32–36 Weeks: Risk is relatively low, but increases as the pregnancy progresses.
37 Weeks: ~2.1 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies.
38 Weeks: ~3.0–3.5 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies.
39 Weeks: ~3.9–4.0 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies.
40 Weeks: ~6.8–14.9 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies.
41 Weeks: ~8.5–17.6 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies.
42 Weeks: ~10.8 per 10,000 ongoing pregnancies. [National Institute of Health (.gov)]

Risk by Gestational Week

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Key Takeaways

Late Term Risk: While stillbirth is generally rare, the risk of continuing the pregnancy beyond 39–40 weeks can outweigh the risks of delivery.
"Waiting" Risks: The risk of stillbirth at 40+ weeks is higher than at 39 weeks, leading many providers to discuss induction.
Risk Factors: Increased risks include being a first-time mother, age over 35, obesity, smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Monitor Movement: A reduction in baby movement is a major warning sign; contact a doctor immediately.