This article discusses premature birth, including the effects on the baby and the birthing parent.
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Weeks Considered Premature Birth: How Early Can a Baby Be Born?
Healthcare providers measure pregnancy development in weeks.
Jill Lehmann Photography/ Getty Images
A full-termpregnancylasts 40 weeks.
Birth before 37 weeks is considered premature.
The risks usually increase the earlier a baby is born.
They are also less likely to experience feelings of attachment and connectedness with their babies.
What Causes Premature Birth?
The cause of premature birth is unknown, but several risk factors play a role.
See a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs of labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Many premature babies require neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) care.
In the NICU, specially-trained doctors and nurses monitor babies for changes.
Aneonatologistis a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of premature babies.
For instance, you have no control over your age or family history.
How Long Do Preemies Stay in the Hospital?
A premature baby is usually ready to go home when they weigh more than 4 pounds.
A premature baby must also consistently gain weight before they can safely go home.
Coming Home After Premature Birth
Bringing a premature baby home after being in the hospital is overwhelming.
They may require special medical care, such as a feeding tube orphototherapyblanket.
Premature babies are not the only ones who need extra care after being hospitalized.
Birthing parents need rest, healthy food, and plenty of water.
They also need a chance to take a break and time for gentle physical activity.
It is common to experience symptoms of anxiety or depression after birth.
Consider meeting with a therapist to get the support you need.
Summary
Premature birth refers to childbirth that happens before a person reaches 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Babies born before 34 weeks of pregnancy are at a higher risk of these problems.
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Nemours Kids Health.When your baby’s born premature (for parents).
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Preterm labor and birth.
March of Dimes.Premature labor and premature birth: Are you at risk?.
Mount Sinai.Newborn jaundice: Discharge.
Nemours Children’s Health.Bringing a premature baby home.
