Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care.
What is stillbirth? —
This is when a baby dies before it is born, in the second half of pregnancy (after 20 weeks) or during labor.
Having a stillbirth is an extremely emotionally painful event for most parents. It's very important to have support as you grieve and heal. It can also help to know what to expect.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You can also do the following:
●Take care of your physical health:
•If you delivered your baby vaginally, you might have pain or swelling in the area. It can help to soak in a shallow, warm bath or apply cold packs.
•Expect to have bleeding from your vagina. This can be red or red-brown in color at first. It should get lighter and more watery after a few days, and might look pink or brown. After a few weeks, it will become a yellow-white discharge. You should wear a pad. Do not use tampons.
•Your breasts might be making milk. This will stop eventually, but it can take a few weeks. If you have pain or discomfort, it can help to apply cold packs or take medicines like acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin). Wear a supportive bra that fits well but is not too tight. In some cases, doctors can prescribe medicine to stop your breasts from making milk. Some people choose to pump their breast milk and donate it.
•Rest when you need to. Take care of your body by eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of water. You can return to your normal activities as you feel ready.
●Take care of your emotional health. It is normal to feel sad, angry, or confused. People grieve differently, and there is no right way to feel. Talking with a counselor can help.
It can help to attend support groups to connect with other people who have gone through a similar loss. This can happen in person or online. Your doctor, nurse, or counselor can help you find a support group. You can also find information at the following websites:
●If you want to try to get pregnant again, talk with your doctor or nurse first. They might suggest that you wait several months. They can also help make sure that you are as healthy as possible before and during any future pregnancies.
What follow-up care do I need? —
Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to make a follow-up appointment. At this visit, they will check how you are healing physically. They will also make sure that you have the support you need.
Often, an exam and tests are done when a baby dies. This can help the doctors better understand the cause. If this was done, your doctor or nurse will talk to you about when to expect the results and what they mean.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call your doctor or nurse for advice right away if:
●Your vaginal bleeding gets heavier.
●You have signs of infection, such as a fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C), chills, fast heartbeat, cold or clammy skin, or dizziness.
●Your pain gets worse.
●You have pain when urinating.
●You have breast symptoms that worry you.
●You have shortness of breath, a headache that is very bad or will not go away, chest pain, or leg pain or swelling.
●You feel depressed or are having trouble coping.
Patient education: Stillbirth (The Basics)
Patient education: Stopping lactation after giving birth (The Basics)
Patient education: Depression in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Coping with worry and stress (The Basics)
