Premature Birth
Premature Birth
Premature Birth is when the baby is born more than three weeks than it is due. For instance, if the baby was due in January, it would most likely be born in December or November if it was premature.
Causes of Premature Birth
- Having a previous premature
- Poor nutrition
- Not gaining enough weight during pregnancy
- Physical injury or trauma
- Smoking or using drugs
Symptoms
- The baby is small but the head is abnormally large
- Fine, slick hair covering the body
- Lack of reflexes for sucking and swallowing
- Low body temperature
Treatment for Premature Birth
- The baby can be placed into and incubator
- The mom can have a feeding tube
- Giving the baby the right fluids and the right amount
- Having the baby spend time under bilirubin lights.
- Have a blood transfusion for the baby
Complications for the Premature Baby
- Breathing Problems
- Heart Problems
- Brain Problems
- Temperature Control Problems
Ways To Help Prevent Preterm Birth
- As soon as you know you're pregnant, see your doctor and just see what they say about everything.
- Know your risks. If you have certain conditions make sure you know the risks of that condition.
- You need to get tested. That way if it looks like you will have a premature baby, there is a good chance the doctors can fix it.
- See a dentist regularly. It is said that going to the dentist actually decreases the likeliness of having a premature baby.
- Eat a healthy diet.