What is the term for fetal death occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy?

The term for fetal death occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy is "stillbirth." This designation is used specifically to refer to the loss of a fetus at a point in pregnancy where it is typically viable if born alive, distinguishing it from earlier losses. By medical definition, stillbirth occurs after the gestational age of 20 weeks and is an important term in maternity care because it reflects significant emotional, psychological, and medical implications for the parents and families involved.

Miscarriage refers to loss that occurs before the 20-week mark, while neonatal death pertains to death that occurs within the first 28 days of life after birth. Perinatal loss encompasses a broader category that can include both stillbirth and neonatal death but does not specify the timing strictly as stillbirth does. Understanding these definitions helps provide clearer communication and support to families experiencing loss.