The sudden loss of a baby is an overwhelming and devastating experience for any family, and it can have lasting emotional impacts. There are several types of baby loss, each with its own causes and circumstances.
Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube, and cannot be relocated. This condition affects about 1 in 80 pregnancies and can pose serious health risks.
- Symptoms: Pain on one side of the abdomen, shoulder tip pain, and bleeding.
- Learn More: For comprehensive information, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options, visit the NHS Ectopic Pregnancy Guide here.
Miscarriage
A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, often due to genetic abnormalities or developmental issues. It occurs in about 1 in 4 pregnancies, making it one of the most common forms of baby loss.
- Causes: Genetic issues, infections, or health problems in the mother.
- Learn More: For more information on miscarriage, including signs and causes, visit the NHS Miscarriage Guide here.
Stillbirth
Stillbirth refers to the loss of a baby after 24 weeks of pregnancy. This can happen due to complications with the placenta, infections, or other unknown causes.
- Risk Factors: Issues with the placenta, preeclampsia, and infections.
- Learn More: For detailed information on causes and what to expect, visit the NHS Stillbirth Guide here.
Neonatal Loss
Neonatal loss is the death of a baby within the first 28 days of life. This can be due to complications during labor, premature birth, or underlying genetic conditions. It can also include Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), an unexplained sudden death in otherwise healthy babies.
- Causes: Prematurity, infections, genetic issues.
- Learn More: For more information, visit the NHS SIDS Guide here.
Molar Pregnancy
A molar pregnancy occurs when the tissue that normally becomes a fetus instead forms an abnormal growth inside the womb. Although rare, it can cause significant emotional distress due to its unexpected nature.
- Learn More: For more details on symptoms and treatment, visit the NHS Molar Pregnancy Guide here.