Good news! Critical risk factors for stillbirths in high-income countries are modifiable.

Research has revealed that the major risk factors for stillbirths in high-income countries are largely modifiable. Australian investigators found the following factors most critical:

• Maternal weight (BMI >25, risk more than doubled when >30)
• Smoking (>10 cigarettes per day during pregnancy)
• Maternal age (>40 years)

These risk factors for stillbirth are controllable by maternal choices, which is really good news.

PositiveTip: Considering pregnancy? Wise health choices can greatly reduce the risk of stillbirth.