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Babies born before 37 weeks gestation are considered premature. These little ones have more health problems than those born after 37 weeks, including long term health issues which may affect them throughout their lives.
The March of Dimes reports that as of 2015 in the United States, 9.6 percent of all babies are born premature. That is one in ten, so some of the new Moms you know have likely delivered a premature baby.Who is at risk for having a premature baby?
There are certain indicators that a mom-to-be may deliver her baby early. While these risk factors are not a definite sign, they each provide some insight into who is at risk for a possible premature birth.
Some of those risk factors include:
- Preeclampsia
- Infection during pregnancy
- Placental abruption
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Drug or alcohol use
- Diabetes
Others who are at risk include very young moms, older mothers and those with multiple babies, such as twins, triplets or quadruplets. It is important to note that if a prior baby was born premature, subsequent siblings will likely be born early, too.
The keys for a healthy delivery of a term baby are to be honest about your lifestyle with your doctor, then work with the medical team of your OBGYN in order to offset any risk factors. Modern medicine can work wonders while the baby is still in the womb, as well as after premature delivery. If you do not yet have an obstetrician/gynecologist, Revere Health Women’s Center has a quality staff of exceptional OBGYNs in American Fork.
While there are no guarantees, there is greater hope for each preemie born in the U.S. today. In fact, even babies weighing less than one pound can survive. Those born at 26 weeks or later now have an 80 percent survival rate. Health Complications for Preemies
The longer a baby remains in the womb toward the due date, the less likely he or she will be to suffer health problems. Some babies born prematurely must remain in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit, where the hospital staff can provide specialized care. This is what is best for a preemie, providing the most positive outcome toward survival and good health.
Some of the health problems a preemie may experience include:
- Apnea
- Patent ductus arteriosis (PDA)
- Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH)
- Respiratory distress syndrome
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)
- Anemia
- Jaundice
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)
- Infections
When can a premature baby go home from the hospital?
Your baby’s healthcare providers will be able to determine when he is healthy enough to go home. There may be a period of time when he must remain in the NICU for specialized care. While you are eager to take your baby home, ensuring the timing is right for your preemie’s best health is very important.
Milestones which may mean your preemie can go home include:
- Weight of at least four pounds
- Able to remain warm without an incubator
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding is consistently going well
- Steady weight gain of at least 1/2 ounce per day
- Breathing is independent of any assistance
Having a premature baby is scary. But your professional medical team has followed you throughout your pregnancy and will work with you to ensure your preemie has the best chance of a healthy, normal life. They will guide you through use of any equipment or treatment your baby may need and help you find resources in your area for support and other needs.