Reasons for stillbirth are not well understood, but a variety of factors may be involved.
You may be a little thirstier than you usually are or urinate more.
Both of these symptoms are common inpregnancy, so you might not think these are due to another condition.

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This is why every pregnant person getsscreened for GDabout halfway through pregnancy.
The aim is to diagnose GD as early as possible so it can be monitored and managed.
Increased insulin causes more fat to grow in the developing fetus.This can cause complications that might lead to stillbirth.
Without adequate circulation, the fetus cannot survive.
They may also ask you to do kick counts to monitor your babys activity.
This might involve changes to your diet or activity level as well as medication like insulin.
There may be misconceptions about the intensity of the grief parents often feel.
This can include:
Ask for help during this time, and allow others to help you.
You’ve been through a lot emotionally and physically, and rest is important.
Help With Grief
Grief can be complex to navigate.
It can help to speak with a mental health specialist, therapist, or grief counselor.
Honoring your baby is often part of the process of coping.
Summary
Gestational diabetes is associated with stillbirth and other pregnancy and birth complications.
A Word From Verywell
Experiencing stillbirth is a stressful life event, no matter the reason.
Grief does not follow a straight line.
Take your time mourning, healing, and feeling everything you need.
Grief is normal and healthy, butdepression that interfereswith functioning may require professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it can.
The most common symptom of a stillbirth is not feeling any movement from the fetus.
In a stillbirth, the heart will not be beating anymore.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Gestational diabetes.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & causes of gestational diabetes.
Stanford Medicine.Diabetes during pregnancy.
2020;49(4):773-781.
March of Dimes.Gestational diabetes.
2019;62(10):1938-1947. doi:10.1007/s00125-019-4943-9
March of Dimes.Miscarriage, loss and grief.