**Question:** Still born child is defined by -

A. Birth weight less than 1000 grams
B. Birth weight less than 1500 grams
C. Birth weight less than 2500 grams
D. Birth weight less than 1000 grams and gestational age less than 37 weeks

**Core Concept:** A stillborn child is defined as a baby who has died before, during, or shortly after birth. The main criteria for defining stillbirth include birth weight and gestational age.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** A stillborn child is defined as a baby with a birth weight less than 1000 grams and gestational age less than 37 weeks. This definition takes into account both the physical characteristics (birth weight) and the developmental stage (gestational age) of the fetus. This ensures that stillbirth is accurately recognized and helps in understanding the underlying causes and contributing factors.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Birth weight less than 1000 grams (Option A) is partially correct but only considers birth weight, not gestational age. This option is too narrow and does not encompass all stillborn infants.
B. Birth weight less than 1500 grams (Option B) is also a part of the definition but is too specific, missing the gestational age component.
C. Birth weight less than 2500 grams (Option C) is too broad, including neonates who may have had a chance of survival with appropriate neonatal care.
D. Birth weight less than 1000 grams and gestational age less than 37 weeks (Option D) is the correct answer because it considers both the physical characteristics and developmental stage of the fetus, thereby accurately defining stillbirth.

**Clinical Pearl:** Stillbirth is a significant public health concern as it is associated with numerous maternal and fetal risk factors such as maternal age, parity, and infections during pregnancy. Assessing and understanding stillbirth rates can help healthcare professionals identify and address modifiable risk factors, improving maternal and child health outcomes.