The objectives of the SCRN are to do the following: (1) Determine the causes of stillbirth using a standardized stillbirth postmortem protocol, to include review of clinical history, protocols for autopsies and pathologic examinations of the fetus and placenta, as well as other postmortem tests to illuminate genetic, maternal, and other environmental influences; (2) Obtain a geographic population-based determination of the incidence of stillbirth, defined as fetal death at 20 weeks gestation or greater; and (3) Elucidate risk factors for stillbirth. A steering committee, comprised of the principal investigators from the clinical sites and from RTI and the project scientists from NICHD, was responsible for the overall design and implementation of the study. RTI also served as the Data Coordinating and Analysis Center (DCAC). Information from the study is expected to benefit families who have experienced a stillbirth, women who are pregnant or who are considering pregnancy, and their physicians.