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Pregnancy is a unique experience, but sometimes babies arrive earlier than expected. When a baby is born prior to 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is called a preterm or premature birth. Premature babies, or "preemies", may experience some health conditions, as their organs and systems are not fully developed. The earlier the baby is born, the greater the risk of complications. So having the best medical plan, with timely medical treatment, is very important. Through this blog, an experienced obstetrician and gynaecologist in Yeshwanthpur, Bengaluru, helps you understand the signs of premature birth, causes, and risks of preterm birth, and make informed decisions.
Synopsis
Signs of Premature Birth
Recognising early signs of premature delivery can make a big difference in protecting the health of both mother and child. Common warning signs include:
● Regular or frequent contractions before 37 weeks.
● Having constant back pain or feeling pressure in your pelvis.
● Spots or bleeding in the vagina.
● A sudden gush of fluid or leaking fluid suggests that your membranes have ruptured (water broke).
● Change in the characteristics of vaginal discharge - watery, mucus-like, or with blood.
With timely treatment, labour can sometimes be delayed, allowing the baby to mature. Manipal Hospital Yeshwantpur has all the facilities to manage these high-risk situations.
Causes of Premature Birth
Premature birth can result from multiple factors, and often more than one cause plays a role. Some common causes of premature birth include:
● Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, or more).
● Infections during pregnancy, particularly of the urinary tract or amniotic fluid.
● Chronic health conditions in the mother, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
● Uterine or cervical problems, including a short cervix or structural abnormalities.
● Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol use, poor nutrition, or extreme stress.
● History of preterm delivery in previous pregnancies.
Sometimes, premature labour occurs without a clear cause. Regular prenatal check-ups and early detection of risks allow doctors to provide timely care and reduce the chances of early delivery.
Complications of Premature Birth
Premature infants can have difficulties either immediately or later in childhood. Some common complications of premature birth are:
● Breathing problems associated with underdeveloped lungs.
● Feeding problems due to underdeveloped suck and swallow reflexes.
● Immunodeficiency, which increases the risk for infections.
● Neurological injuries, including developmental learning disabilities and, very rarely, cerebral palsy.
● Vision and hearing impairments, especially in extremely premature infants.
● Increased risk of long-term health issues such as asthma or learning disabilities.
Due to advancing technology in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), more premature infants are surviving and doing well. Comprehensive supportive care at specialised obstetrics and gynaecology facilities substantially improves the likelihood of positive outcomes.
Treatment for Premature Birth
The treatment provided to a baby is based on the baby's gestational age at birth and the baby's presentation at birth. A premature baby will be admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where the baby will be observed and monitored in a specialised environment. Treatment can include, and is not limited to:
● Breathing support, with the use of oxygen and/or ventilators.
● Feeding support, by introducing intravenous (IV) fluids and/or feeding tubes until a baby can suck and swallow independently.
● Thermoregulation, with incubators to provide a stable body temperature.
● Medications to assist with lung function, provide prevention of infections, and/or support heart function.
● Skill development activities, with occupational and physical therapy.
And, ongoing and early follow-up care to help with developmental milestones. The team of dedicated neonatologists at Manipal Hospital, Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore, provide full-service NICU and provides care for babies born prematurely 24 hours a day.
Prevention Tips for Premature Birth
While you cannot prevent every preterm birth, there are strategies to lower the risk of having a baby prematurely. These include:
● Attending prenatal appointments on a regular basis.
● Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids.
● Not smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illicit drugs.
● Managing chronic health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes with your health care provider.
● Reducing stress and getting enough sleep.
● Following your doctor’s recommendations if you had a premature baby in the past and are at risk of having a premature baby again.
Being aware of what steps to take and working with a health care provider can often prevent or delay preterm birth and provide a healthy baby.
Conclusion
Premature birth is a serious problem, but due to the medical advances and specialised care available, the chances of survival and development are significantly increased. It is very helpful to note the early signs of labour, seek care quickly, and be proactive in your pregnancy. For infants born prematurely, neonatal specialised care is what matters. Our obstetrics and gynaecology Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore, mothers and babies are supported throughout the entire process, from prevention and safe delivery to advanced NICU care. With compassionate support and world-class care, families can rest knowing that mom and baby are in the best hands. Consult an expert now!
FAQ's
An infant is considered to be born prematurely when born prior to 37 weeks of pregnancy. Because the baby may still need time for all of their organ systems to develop, premature births may require a provider to assist the infant in safe brain development and health.
Absolutely, countless premature babies grow up or will grow up healthy with the right care and continued support for their own development. With a combination of neonatal care, follow-up, and supportive environments, the child will have an enhanced chance of developing to enjoy a fully normal and happy life.
Prematurity is classified by gestational age, including late preterm (34–36 weeks), very preterm (28–32 weeks), and extremely preterm (before 28 weeks). The earlier the birth, the greater the risk, necessitating individualised neonatal care and support.
That can sometimes be delayed medically, such as using medications to relax the uterus, corticosteroids to develop the baby's lungs, or recommending bed rest. The goal of these options is to give the baby more time to develop inside the belly.
No, not all premature births may be prevented because not all premature births have an identifiable reason for the premature birth. However, good prenatal care, managing chronic disease(s), following medical advice, and having a healthier lifestyle will decrease the chances of premature birth and complications.
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