Non-anomalous stillbirth by gestational age: Trends differ based on method of epidemiologic calculation

Abstract

Objective. The objective of the study is to compare gestational age specific rates, risks and prospective risks of stillbirth.

Methods. A retrospective cohort study of women with a singleton non-anomalous pregnancy was conducted. Definitions were chosen to maintain consistency with previous literature.

Results. Rate was highest at 20 weeks, nadired at 41 weeks and rose thereafter. Risk was low earlier in gestation, nadired at 29 weeks and rose with increasing gestational age. Prospective risk was highest at 20 weeks, nadired at 40 weeks and rose at 42 weeks.

Conclusions. Differences in trends of stillbirth are noted depending on the calculation. All of these calculations are useful in clinical practice.

Keywords:

• Stillbirth
• epidemiology
• rate
• risk
• prospective risk

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.