Though there are lots of premature babies being born, the causes for this condition cannot yet be fully understood. At the most parents especially mothers would need to know what to expect when their babies are born before it reaches full term. Although normal pregnancy should reach about 40 weeks, there are babies that may be born between the week 37 and week 42. They are still considered full term babies. However, babies that may be born before the week 37 has been completed are classified as premature babies.
There are a number of premature babies being born each year. This situation makes premature births to be one of the health problems that people have to deal with. Premature babies are more prone to health complications upon birth which at times can be fatal. They have to be placed under intensive care with properly trained staff and equipment that can provide the necessary care especially when multiple health problems have to be dealt with. Aside from complications after birth, premature babies may also suffer other problems such as long term disabilities like mental retardation, learning as well as some behavioral problems. They may likely suffer cerebral palsy, lung problems and loss of hearing and vision as well.
There are also some recent studies that indicate adult health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart diseases which may be developed by premature babies when they grow up. Some pregnant women are more prone to having premature babies especially when they have had some similar experience in the past. Pregnant women who have twins or triplets may also have premature babies. Those who also have some uterine or some abnormalities in the cervix may give birth to premature babies. The premature births may be caused by the spontaneous preterm labor. The sac holding the baby may also break too early before the baby reaches full term.
Although the real causes of preterm labor and the breaking of the sac are not clear, there are some conditions that may contribute to pregnant women’s giving birth to premature babies. Some pregnant women may lack prenatal care. They may also be indulging themselves in dangerous substances brought about by smoking, alcohol drinking or using illegal drugs. Pregnant women may also have premature babies if they are exposed to some medication. Other contributory factors may also include all forms of domestic violence as well as the lack of social support, stressful conditions, long working hours as well as being exposed to pollution.
The conditions mentioned above may contribute to the problems of pregnant women who are giving birth to premature babies. They may be able to prevent such occurrence if they live healthier lifestyles and if they are in better health condition. Each pregnant woman has to take care not only of herself but her baby as well. Pregnant women must always remember that whatever they do, their babies inside their tummies are affected as well.
