Babies who are born between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation are defined as premature babies or preemies. A normal full term baby is born between 40 and 42 weeks. About 10% of all babies are born prematurely. There are various possible reasons that induce a woman to go into an early labor. Some of them are:
• It is a multiple pregnancy, carrying twins or more.
• There is a history of premature births, stillbirths, infertility or abortions.
• The baby inside the womb may not be growing well due to the placenta not providing enough nourishment.
• The woman’s age is a factor. Those under 18 or above 35 are at higher risk.
• If a woman’s cervix is weak, it won’t stay close.
• If a woman is overweight or underweight, there is an increase risk for premature birth.
• The woman has a health complication such as diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.
• Being tired or overworked all the time can lead to delivering early.
• There is substance abuse of drugs, alcohol or tobacco.
A woman may also elect to have an early delivery based on the advice of her doctor. Her baby may not be doing well or her health may be in danger.
The following can help to prevent a premature labor although there is no guarantee that it won’t happen:
• Stop smoking
• Avoid a stressful lifestyle
• Don’t drink alcohol
• Maintain a proper and healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy way of life, get enough rest and exercise
• Keep all your appointments with the doctor to ensure your pregnancy is progressing normally
I am fortunate that all my pregnancies were normal and full term.The good news is that medical technology is very advanced nowadays to ensure that a preterm baby is able to grow up into a normal child.