Diabetic-associated stillbirth: incidence, pathophysiology, and prevention

Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2007 Jun;34(2):293-307, ix. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2007.03.001.

Abstract

All forms of diabetes during pregnancy are associated with an increased risk for stillbirth, defined as fetal death at greater than 20 weeks. The incidence of stillbirth in women who have diabetes has decreased dramatically with improved diabetes care. Diabetic-associated stillbirth is associated with hyperglycemia, resulting in fetal anaerobic metabolism with hypoxia and acidosis. Prevention of stillbirth in women who have diabetes hinges on intensive multidisciplinary prenatal care with control of blood sugars and appropriate fetal surveillance.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Delivery, Obstetric
  • Diabetes Mellitus / epidemiology
  • Diabetes Mellitus / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Fetal Death / physiopathology
  • Fetal Death / prevention & control*
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Preconception Care
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy in Diabetics / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy in Diabetics / physiopathology*
  • Prenatal Care
  • Stillbirth / epidemiology*