What Is Intrauterine Fetal Demise? Risk Factors, Causes, and Symptoms

January 10, 2026 | Birth Injury

What Is Intrauterine Fetal Demise? Risk Factors, Causes, and Symptoms

Intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) is a devastating pregnancy outcome that occurs when a fetus passes away in the womb after the first trimester. For expectant parents, the diagnosis can be confusing, overwhelming, and emotionally painful. Understanding what intrauterine fetal demise is, how it happens, and what symptoms may appear can help families better navigate this difficult experience.

While IUFD is relatively uncommon, it affects thousands of pregnancies in the United States each year. Learning the risk factors and potential causes may also help parents recognize when additional medical attention is needed.

What Is Intrauterine Fetal Demise?

Intrauterine fetal demise refers to the death of a fetus at or after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before birth. It is sometimes called stillbirth, though medical professionals often use IUFD when the loss occurs before labor begins.

Unlike early pregnancy loss, IUFD happens later in gestation, when fetal development is more advanced. In some cases, the condition is discovered during a routine prenatal appointment, such as when no fetal heartbeat is detected during an ultrasound.

How Common Is Intrauterine Fetal Demise?

Although most pregnancies result in healthy births, IUFD does occur. National health data estimates that stillbirth affects about 1 in 175 births, and each year, about 21,000 babies are stillborn in the United States.

Rates may vary based on maternal health, access to prenatal care, and other risk factors. Some cases occur without warning, even in pregnancies that previously appeared healthy. This uncertainty can make the loss especially traumatic for families.

Risk Factors for Intrauterine Fetal Demise

Certain conditions or circumstances may increase the risk of IUFD. Having one or more risk factors does not mean fetal demise will occur, but it may warrant closer monitoring during pregnancy.

Common risk factors include:

  • High blood pressure or preeclampsia
  • Diabetes, including gestational diabetes
  • Maternal infections during pregnancy
  • Obesity or poor maternal nutrition
  • Advanced maternal age
  • Smoking, alcohol use, or drug exposure
  • Multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets

A history of pregnancy complications or prior pregnancy loss may also raise the risk.

What Causes Intrauterine Fetal Demise?

In some cases, a clear cause of IUFD can be identified. In others, the exact reason remains unknown despite medical testing. Possible causes may involve issues with the placenta, fetus, or maternal health.

Potential causes include:

  • Placental problems, such as placental abruption or insufficient blood flow
  • Umbilical cord complications, including cord compression or knots
  • Fetal genetic or structural abnormalities
  • Severe maternal illness or infection
  • Trauma or injury during pregnancy

Medical professionals may recommend additional testing after IUFD to help determine what happened and assess risks for future pregnancies.

Symptoms of Intrauterine Fetal Demise

Some individuals experience noticeable symptoms before IUFD is diagnosed, while others may not have any obvious warning signs. Because symptoms can vary, it is important to report any concerning changes to a healthcare provider right away.

Possible symptoms may include:

  • Decreased or absent fetal movement
  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Sudden changes in pregnancy symptoms

A lack of fetal movement is often the most commonly reported sign. Any significant decrease should be evaluated promptly.

Emotional and Physical Impact on Parents

The emotional toll of intrauterine fetal demise can be profound. Parents may experience grief, shock, guilt, anger, or anxiety, often all at once. Physical recovery after delivery may also take time, particularly if complications occur.

Support from medical professionals, counselors, and support groups can play an important role in the healing process. Many parents benefit from speaking with others who have experienced similar losses.

When Medical Errors Are a Concern

While IUFD can occur even with appropriate prenatal care, there are situations where delayed diagnosis, missed warning signs, or inadequate treatment may contribute to the outcome. When parents have concerns about whether proper care was provided—or if medical malpractice has occurred—they may wish to explore their options and seek answers.

Understanding medical records and timelines can be complex, which is why many families choose to speak with a legal professional experienced in handling sensitive pregnancy-related cases.

Contact the Harrisburg Personal Injury Attorneys at Marzzacco Niven & Associates for a Free Consultation Today

Losing a pregnancy is an incredibly painful experience, and families deserve compassion, answers, and support. A consultation with our Harrisburg personal injury lawyers can provide clarity about the legal process and what to expect moving forward. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.

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