Premature Birth
More than ten percent of children born in the U.S. are premature, a figure that has been gradually increasing over the years. Prematurity creates many problems for the baby and the family and the costs to treat these babies are very high. The standard definition of prematurity is when a baby is born before the mother is 38 weeks pregnant. Taylor and Hoekstra said, "Consider those born too soon-before their time. Forty weeks is the proper time for forming a baby. Thirty-eight or forty-one will do just fine. But not thirty, not twenty-seven and, there can be no doubt, not twenty-two." Advances in medicine have increased the chance of a baby to live even if it is born after only twenty-two weeks. This is a good thing but it can also cause significant problems for the baby. Prevention of premature birth would be better than fixing it after it happens. This paper will review the reasons for premature birth and ways to prevent it. Medical complications and special needs for the baby along with possible problems in growth and development later in life are also covered. The more we understand about premature birth, the more we might be able to prevent it in the future.
Cough reflexes are under-developed which makes feeding and breathing a large problem. For example, drinking alcohol slows the amount of oxygen that gets to the fetus. Most premature babies need about eight to ten feedings a day, and it is not recommended to wait longer than four hours between feedings. Preventing PrematurityReducing the risk of premature birth would involve reversing the conditions explained above. This technique is recommended as often as possible during the week and can be used for as long as the premature child and parent enjoy the time together. The truth is between fifty and sixty percent of all premature babies have learning disabilities throughout their school years. Common factors that are frequently found in references are low maternal weight, poor nutrition, chronic illness and the lack of medical care. Minor surgical problems such as umbilical hernias and minor skin and teeth disorders are also found. Good prenatal care during pregnancy would help identify any problems early on and if early complications (vaginal bleeding or contractions) are identified, a physician can start treatment. Many doctors advise giving a premature baby solid food at four to six months after the baby's due date, not its birth date. If the preemie has some of the medical complications or disabilities listed above, they will need to see many other health professionals other than just their pediatricians. The baby can also be unprotected against infection because its white blood cells do not prepare for an attack. Older mothers may have medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure that can increase the risk of premature birth. Avoidance of smoking, drug use and alcohol use while pregnant are extremely important if a mother wants to avoid premature birth. As research on prevention gets better, and healthcare improves for the premature infant, we can hope for more happy endings for the premature baby and his family.
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