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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
04:18
Modeling Ascending Vaginal Infection, Preterm Birth, and Neonatal Morbidity in Mice
Published on: October 10, 2025
695
Predisposing factors associated with stillbirth in Tanzania
Hussein Kidanto1, Georgina Msemo2, Donan Mmbando2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Summary
Fresh stillbirth (FSB) is linked to maternal transfer and absent fetal heart rate (FHR). Early detection of FHR abnormalities and prompt delivery can prevent FSB in low-resource settings.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Fresh stillbirth (FSB) poses a significant challenge in low-resource settings.
- Identifying risk factors associated with FSB is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between specific medical conditions and fetal compromise during labor with fresh stillbirth (FSB).
- To determine if absent fetal heart rate (FHR) before delivery increases the risk of FSB.
Main Methods:
- An observational cohort study was conducted in three Tanzanian university referral hospitals from January to September 2013.
- Maternal, labor, and neonatal characteristics were recorded for 15,305 deliveries.
- FSB was defined by Apgar score of 0 at 1 and 5 minutes, intact skin, and suspected death during labor or delivery.
Main Results:
- Stillbirth was significantly more likely following maternal transfer (OR 3.27) and absent FHR (OR 996.29).
- Increased risk of stillbirth was associated with uterine rupture (OR 138.62), placental abruption (OR 40.96), cord prolapse (OR 13.49), and prematurity (OR 6.87).
- Out of 15,305 deliveries, 499 were stillbirths, including 243 FSBs.
Conclusions:
- In low-resource settings, FSB can potentially be prevented through a multifaceted approach.
- This strategy involves clinical risk identification, early detection of abnormal FHR, and timely, expedited delivery.
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