We all know that a pregnancy considered normal (full term) is one that goes beyond 37 weeks; when birth occurs before this period, it is called preterm birth. There are many reasons for prematurity to occur, however, not all of them are known. Only 30% of cases can be explained scientifically.

Some of the higher risk cases for preterm birth are, for example, twin or multiple pregnancies, or a history of uterine problems and issues with the cervix.

Major Risks

In addition to other problems that can arise during pregnancy that pose risks not only to the mother’s life but also to the baby’s, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, problems with obesity, as well as fetal anomalies or health problems like respiratory difficulties. Some proven and identified causes of preterm birth are:

  • Uterine malformation
  • Placenta previa
  • Uterine infections
  • Fetal malformation
  • Premature rupture of membranes / ruptured membranes

Problems such as hypertension, cervical insufficiency, pregnancy through in vitro fertilization, and premature placental abruption are also very common causes of preterm birth and require proper care and follow-up.

Care After Birth

Care must also be taken after birth, as almost always the baby needs special care due to the immaturity of their organs, like the lungs and kidneys, and requires admission to the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

As preterm babies are born with a weight well below the expected, hospitalization is also necessary to monitor their weight gain and development1. Some maternity hospitals work with the kangaroo mother care method, which allows preterm babies to be breastfed by their mothers or at least receive breast milk via a cup. Weight gain makes all the difference in the baby’s response to treatment and allows them to be discharged as soon as possible.

Some situations require prolonged hospitalization, especially in special cases like those born in the 6th month or even earlier. Admission to the Neonatal ICU will serve the same function as the uterus or will attempt to replicate it as much as possible.

Providing a cozy environment, with care and the right nutrition so that the baby can finish their development and gain weight, even inside the incubator. Tests are performed to monitor progress and to check that everything is as expected.

Signs of Preterm Labor

Due to some complications and issues during pregnancy, the body may present different symptoms, some of which may be signs of preterm labor2. But it is important to point out that not all signs of preterm labor mean that it will actually happen; it may only be a threat and, with medical intervention and proper care, everything can be resolved.

Contractions

If you notice contractions, even if mild and almost imperceptible, and you have not yet reached the 37th week, it is recommended to seek your doctor to assess the condition of your cervix, which may be starting to dilate or thin out.

A general assessment of the situation will be done by the doctor, as well as the conditions of the pregnancy, the baby’s and the woman’s health, which will determine the best course of treatment or resolution, which in many cases may involve opting for the baby’s birth, believing they have higher chances of survival and development outside the womb.

In addition to uterine contractions, a strong pressure in the pelvic area may be felt, as well as lower back pain, which are also part of labor and signs of preterm labor when they occur before the 37th week.

Unusual colored or jelly-like vaginal discharge (mucous plug), menstrual-like cramps, and diarrhea are also clear signs and a doctor should be consulted immediately.

The Importance of Prenatal Care

That’s why prenatal care is essential for a healthy pregnancy, as it is through this monitoring that it’s possible to predict and detect potential health issues, chronic diseases, or even allergic reactions that could cause preterm birth. As well as hereditary issues and family medical history of the parents, which are crucial for tracing and investigating possible and future problems.

Thanks to major advances in medicine regarding preterm babies, the chances of development and survival for babies born early are high. However, the shorter their time in the womb, the higher the chances they may have health problems.

Preterm babies have a high chance of having motor coordination problems, vision and learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, and respiratory problems3.

See also: Is There Risk with Birth at 37 Weeks?

Photo: Roberto Vinicius, Jeso Carneiro