Miscarriage vs. Stillborn

Attribute	Miscarriage	Stillborn
Cause	Spontaneous abortion before 20 weeks of pregnancy	Death of a baby after 20 weeks of pregnancy
Viability	Not viable outside the womb	Considered viable but died before or during birth
Legal definition	Not considered a live birth	Considered a stillbirth
Emotional impact	Can be traumatic for parents	Can be devastating for parents

Definition

Miscarriage and stillborn are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things. A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week, while a stillborn is the loss of a baby after the 20th week of pregnancy. Both are heartbreaking experiences for parents, but they have distinct medical definitions.

Causes

The causes of miscarriage and stillborn can vary, but there are some common factors that can contribute to both. Miscarriages are often caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, hormonal imbalances in the mother, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders. Stillborns, on the other hand, can be caused by complications during labor and delivery, infections, umbilical cord accidents, or placental problems. While the causes may differ, both miscarriage and stillborn can be devastating for parents.

Symptoms

There are some common symptoms that may indicate a miscarriage, such as vaginal bleeding, cramping, and the passing of tissue from the vagina. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all, and the miscarriage is only detected during a routine ultrasound. Stillborns, on the other hand, are usually diagnosed during a prenatal checkup when the doctor is unable to detect a heartbeat. In some cases, a stillborn may be discovered when the mother notices a decrease in fetal movement. Both miscarriage and stillborn can be emotionally and physically traumatic for parents.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent a miscarriage or stillborn from occurring. In the case of a miscarriage, the body will usually expel the pregnancy tissue naturally, but in some cases, a procedure called a dilation and curettage (D&C) may be necessary to remove the tissue. In the case of a stillborn, labor is usually induced to deliver the baby. In both cases, parents are given the option to hold a funeral or memorial service for their lost child. The grieving process is an important part of healing for parents who have experienced a miscarriage or stillborn.

Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of a miscarriage and stillborn can be profound and long-lasting. Parents who experience a miscarriage may feel a sense of guilt or failure, wondering if they did something to cause the loss. Parents who experience a stillborn may feel intense grief and sadness, mourning the loss of their baby and the future they had envisioned. Both experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. It is important for parents to seek support from loved ones, counselors, or support groups to help them navigate their grief.

Support

There are many resources available for parents who have experienced a miscarriage or stillborn. Support groups, online forums, and counseling services can provide a safe space for parents to share their feelings and connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. Many hospitals also offer bereavement services for parents who have lost a baby, including support groups, counseling, and memorial services. It is important for parents to reach out for help and support during this difficult time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, miscarriage and stillborn are two distinct experiences that can have a profound impact on parents. While they may have different causes, symptoms, and treatments, both can be emotionally devastating for parents. It is important for parents to seek support and guidance as they navigate their grief and begin the healing process. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you through this difficult time.