The placenta in stillbirth

Abstract

Stillbirth is an absolute indication for pathological examination of the placenta. Placental histopathology can shed light on the cause of the stillbirth and help in the management of future pregnancies and in the resolution of medicolegal issues. Placental lesions that are likely causes of stillbirth are discussed. They can be broadly classified into umbilical cord lesions, fetal vascular lesions, maternal uteroplacental insufficiency and placental inflammation. In some of these lesions, the direct contribution to the stillbirth may be obvious; in others, it may be debatable. Medicolegal questions that are frequently posed in placental examination in stillbirths are the timing of fetal demise and whether there was fetal distress.