Premature birth, also known as preterm birth, is when a baby is born before completing 37 weeks of gestation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), premature birth affects approximately 15 million babies worldwide every year.

Premature birth can lead to numerous complications, and the risk factor for premature birth is higher in women due to various reasons.

What is Premature Birth?

Pregnancy usually lasts for 40 weeks, and once a baby reaches 37 weeks in the womb, the pregnancy is considered full-term. When a baby is born before 37 weeks, it is known as premature birth or preterm birth.

Premature birth can cause numerous physical and mental complications, and the risks can increase with the decrease of gestational age.

Causes of Premature Birth

A lot of factors can increase the risk of premature birth in women. Some of the most common causes of premature birth include the following.

1. Previous Premature Birth

Women who had previous premature births are at risk of premature birth in their next pregnancy.

Studies have shown that women who gave birth before 37 weeks in the past are three times more likely to have the same issue in their next pregnancy compared to women who had full-term deliveries.

2. Pregnancy with Twins or More

Women pregnant with twins or more are at a higher risk of premature birth. Multiple pregnancies involve more strain and stress on the uterus, making women more prone to early contractions and labor.

3. Chronic Health Conditions

Women with existing health issues like diabetes, heart, kidney, or lung diseases, and high blood pressure are more prone to premature birth.

4. Infections

Infections during pregnancy can cause premature birth. Some of the infections that can lead to preterm labor include UTIs, vaginal infections, STDs, and UTIs.

5. Cigarette Smoking

Women who smoke during pregnancy have a higher risk of premature birth. Cigarette smoking can cause complications to the placenta, increase inflammation, and reduce blood flow to the fetus, leading to a higher risk of premature birth.

6. Substance Abuse

Substance abuse during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, especially with drug use. The use of illegal drugs can lead to complications such as bleeding, changes in blood pressure, and infections.

The baby can also experience withdrawal symptoms after birth.

7. Stress

Stress can also increase the risk of premature birth. Women who experience stress during pregnancy are more prone to early contractions and premature labor. The stress hormone cortisol can also weaken the cervical muscles, leading to premature birth.

Complications of Premature Birth

Premature birth is the leading cause of neonatal death worldwide. Babies born prematurely can experience numerous complications, including the following.

1. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)

RDS is a breathing problem that occurs when a baby’s lungs have not fully developed. The baby may require breathing assistance, and in severe cases, oxygen.

2. Infections

Premature babies are prone to infections due to their underdeveloped immune system.

3. Low Birth Weight

Premature babies usually have low birth weights, which can slow down their growth and increase their risk of developing health problems in the future.

4. Vision and Hearing Problems

In premature babies, the organs responsible for sight and hearing are not fully developed, leading to vision and hearing problems.

5. Developmental Delays

Premature babies may experience developmental delays, which can affect their physical and mental development.

Ways to Prevent Premature Birth

Although there are no guarantees in preventing premature birth, there are certain steps women can take to reduce the risk of premature birth.

1. Prenatal Care

Regular prenatal care can reduce the risk of premature birth by detecting potential complications early and treating them.

2. Healthy Lifestyle

Adopting a healthy lifestyle such as eating well, getting enough sleep, and avoiding risky behaviors like smoking and substance abuse, can help reduce the risk of premature birth.

3. Stress Reduction

Pregnant women should find healthy stress-relief techniques to reduce stress.

4. Medical Treatment

Women with existing health conditions should seek medical treatment and management of their condition to reduce the risk of premature birth.

Conclusion

Premature birth is a serious issue that affects millions of babies worldwide and increases their risk of physical and mental complications.

Women are at a higher risk of premature birth due to various reasons, including existing health conditions and risky behaviors. It is essential to seek medical care and adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of premature birth and its complications.