What Should I Do If the Fetus Dies and Decays in the Womb?

After confirmation of fetal death, induction of labor is usually performed. Common causes of fetal death include umbilical cord disease, fetal malformations, placental dysfunction due to maternal disease leading to insufficient oxygen supply, and hypoxic death of the fetus. Symptoms of multiple fetal deaths caused by a lack of blocking antibodies or low sperm quality should be investigated to determine the cause of fetal death. In most cases of fetal death, natural delivery through the vagina is possible without the need for surgical intervention. If the dead fetus remains in the uterus for too long without being removed, it can have adverse effects on the mother. Typically, if the fetal death occurs for more than four weeks, the pregnant woman may develop complications such as blood coagulation and functional impairment. If a fetus dies at five months of pregnancy, prompt surgical abortion should be performed. At this stage, the fetus is relatively large, and medical abortion is not suitable. Surgical removal of the dead fetus is necessary to ensure the health of the pregnant woman. Prompt management of fetal death is essential. Prolonged retention of the dead fetus in the uterine cavity can lead to coagulation disorders in the mother. Whether a fetal death will affect a subsequent pregnancy depends on the underlying cause. Women who have experienced previous fetal deaths should identify the cause before attempting another pregnancy to prevent recurrence. After a fetal death, women should take care of their health and undergo a detailed examination before attempting to conceive again to assess their readiness for pregnancy. Proper contraception should be practiced to avoid unnecessary abortions that can cause physical harm. Fetal death in utero is a significant stressful event in the life of a pregnant woman, causing significant harm. She not only has to bear the emotional impact but also faces the pain of the induction procedure. The presence of other normal pregnant women in the ward, as well as the pressure from parents and husbands, can increase the psychological burden, sense of loss, guilt, and negative emotions experienced by the pregnant woman. Therefore, timely psychological care and early intervention for abnormal psychological states are crucial to reducing the occurrence of delayed childbirth, postpartum hemorrhage, and postpartum depression.