Prematurity has claimed the title of 10th top causes of death around the world and is the leading cause behind 1.2 million deaths. If a child is born before 35 weeks, it is considered premature and the baby is usually kept in the hospital’s intensive care unit. If a woman goes into labor before 37 weeks it is called preterm labor, and “late preterm” babies are born between 34-37 weeks, they are still handled carefully. Babies that do not look premature and are not put into intensive care, are still at risk for more problems than the full-term babies. Premature babies tend to have trouble breathing, feeding, and are more at risk of catching an infection.
If the mother has certain health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, these may contribute to preterm labor. 15% of all premature births are multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.). Other factors that contribute to preterm labor include: a weakened cervix, birth defects in the uterus, history of preterm labor, infections (urinary tract, amniotic membrane, etc.), poor nutrition during pregnancy, high blood pressure, age (girls under 16, and woman older than 35), smoking, taking drugs, and being underweight all contribute to premature births.
November 17th is World Prematurity Day where countries raise awareness for prenatal care, and to honor preterm babies and their families. An average of 15 million babies were born prematurely in 2013, with an 8% of those infants dying. March of Dimes is the leading American organization in raising awareness for premature births.
Source: http://www.therichest.com
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