Overview
Fewer baby movements is a warning sign to check right away.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Fewer or no baby movements
- Recent miscarriage or pregnancy loss
Look up a symptom: Pregnant or recently gave birth
When to get medical care
Call 911Heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, fluid leaking, fever, or fewer baby movements: call 911 or go to labor and delivery.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Many causes.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Ultrasound:
- Tests for causes:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Ask for time with your baby if you want
- Lean on support
Which doctor treats this
- Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
- They may send you to a pediatric specialist: an OB-GYN or a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Partners: Grief support is for you too.
For caregivers
- Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
- Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
- Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
- Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Stillbirth (baby dies before birth)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.