The Pain of Loss: Reflections on Fetal Death and its Emotional Impact
Recently, the world was shaken by the sad news involving Micheli Machado, 44, and Tati Machado, 33. The two lost their babies in the final moments of pregnancy, a phase that should have been full of expectations and joy. The feeling of loss is overwhelming, and the situation left many fans and other mothers in a state of shock, reflecting on the fragility of life.
What Happens During Intrauterine Fetal Death?
When the mothers realized they could no longer feel their babies’ movements, they sought medical attention immediately. Unfortunately, the tests confirmed what no one wants to hear: the babies’ heartbeats had stopped. Dr. Paulo Noronha, a respected obstetrician and gynecologist, explains that intrauterine fetal death is a rare obstetric event, but extremely devastating for the families affected.
According to Dr. Noronha, the risk of fetal death increases as the pregnancy progresses, especially after 42 weeks. Studies show that, in full-term pregnancies without complications, this risk is approximately 1.1 to 3.2 cases per thousand pregnancies.
Risk Factors and Causes of Fetal Death
Although there is literature on the subject, many studies still fail to clearly identify the factors that contribute to fetal death in low-risk pregnancies. However, some conditions can increase this risk, such as:
- Uncontrolled gestational diabetes
- Hypertension
- Growth restricted fetus
- Pregnancy through in vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Some thrombophilias
Dr. Paula Fettback, also a gynecologist and obstetrician, adds that maternal age, in itself, is not a significant risk factor for fetal deaths. The main causes that can lead to the death of a baby in the final stages include complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, placental insufficiency and malformations.
She points out that in many cases, the origin of the problem remains unknown. Causes such as knots in the umbilical cord or the presence of meconium (when the baby releases feces into the amniotic fluid before birth) should be considered as diagnoses, but the truth is that, many times, the reasons for the loss remain a mystery.
The Importance of Prenatal Care
Dr. Paulo emphasizes that adequate prenatal care is essential to minimize the risks associated with pregnancy. Obstetric ultrasounds, especially with Doppler, can help identify signs of fetal distress. In addition, it is crucial that pregnant women have access to adequate emotional and psychological support throughout their pregnancy.
Although there are no recommendations in the medical literature that advise inducing labor before 39 weeks to prevent stillbirth, most guidelines suggest that labor be induced from 41 weeks onwards, as risks increase after this time.
Emotional Support in Times of Grief
In such a painful situation, emotional support is essential. Dr. Noronha highlights the importance of informing mothers and fathers with empathy, allowing them to process the pain of loss and, if they wish, have a moment to say goodbye to their babies.
This experience is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the need for mutual support during the most difficult times. If you or someone you know is going through a similar situation, don’t hesitate to seek help and emotional support. Talking to professionals and support groups can make all the difference.
Finally, it is essential that society looks at these issues with more attention and compassion. Each story of loss is unique and deserves to be treated with the respect and seriousness that the situation demands.