A Comparative Study of Stillbirths, Maternal age in Rural & Urban Bihar- An Analysis

This descriptive study examines the distribution of stillbirth cases by maternal age and gestational age in rural and urban Bihar during 2021, using the provided state-level case tables. The unit of analysis is the stillbirth case, and the results are presented as counts and within-setting proportions rather than population-based stillbirth rates because denominators were not available. Rural Bihar recorded 7,289 stillbirth cases, with the largest share among mothers aged 20–24 years and 25–29 years, and most events occurring at 37–39 weeks of gestation. Urban Bihar recorded 52 stillbirth cases, showing a similar concentration in the 20–29 age range, though at a much smaller absolute scale. These findings describe the burden pattern within the available data and identify priority areas for antenatal surveillance, intrapartum monitoring, and referral readiness, especially in rural facilities. The analysis is descriptive and is therefore best understood as a useful basis for programmatic review rather than as evidence of causation or program effect. It provides a positive foundation for identifying priority areas, strengthening service delivery, and guiding further operational action.

Stillbirth, Maternal age, Rural health, Urban health, Gestational age

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