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What is Premature Birth? A Guide for World Premature Day

Premature birth, also known as preterm, is defined as the birth of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation. Read our guide on what is premature birth and learn more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of premature birth by wallyharrett
Estimated reading time: 2 min 29 sec
What is Premature Birth? A Guide for World Premature Day Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Premature birth, also known as preterm, is defined as the birth of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation. Preterm birth is a global health issue affecting millions of babies and their families each year.

World Prematurity Day is observed on November 17th every year with the aim of raising awareness about this important issue.

Causes of Premature Birth

The exact cause of premature birth is not always known, but there are several factors that increase the risk:.

Medical Conditions

Medical conditions like hypertension, diabetes, infections, and thyroid problems increase the risk of premature birth. Multiple pregnancies, where a woman is carrying more than one baby, are also at a higher risk of preterm birth.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use can also increase the risk of premature birth. Lack of proper nutrition and maternal stress are also contributing factors in many cases.

Symptoms of Premature Birth

The symptoms of premature labor include:.

  • Contractions, which may feel like menstrual cramps, or a tightening of the stomach every 10 minutes or more frequently
  • Change in vaginal discharge, which may be thicker or bloody
  • Pressure in the pelvis or lower abdomen
  • Low back pain that is constant or comes and goes

Diagnosis of Premature Birth

If you experience any symptoms of premature labor, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for any signs of preterm labor.

An ultrasound may be conducted to assess your baby’s position, weight, and overall health.

Related Article Understanding World Premature Day on November 17th Understanding World Premature Day on November 17th

Treatment of Premature Birth

The treatment plan for premature birth depends on a variety of factors, including how far along the pregnancy is and the health of both the mother and the baby. The most common treatments for premature birth include:.

Bed Rest

In some cases, rest, and relaxation measures may help decrease the chance of preterm labor. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you rest in bed or stay off your feet as much as possible during this time.

Medications

Several medications can be given to slow or stop labor in certain cases.

These include tocolytics, which relax the uterus; progesterone, which helps maintain a healthy pregnancy; and corticosteroids, which can help the baby’s lungs develop faster.

Cesarean Delivery

If your healthcare provider determines that delivery is necessary, a cesarean delivery may be recommended. Cesarean delivery involves delivering the baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

This method is often used when there is an emergency that puts the mother or baby at risk.

Conclusion

Premature birth is a significant health issue that affects millions of infants worldwide each year. While the exact cause of premature labor may not always be known, there are several factors that increase the risk.

It is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any symptoms of preterm labor. Thanks in most part, to early diagnosis and proper treatment, the outcomes of premature births are improving day by day.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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