When a baby is born before the 37th week of pregnancy, it is considered premature or preterm. A typical pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks. The final weeks in the womb are critical for healthy weight gain and the full development of various vital organs such as the brain and lungs. As a result, premature babies may have more medical issues and require a more extended hospital stay. They may also have long-term health issues like learning or physical disabilities. The cause of premature birth is frequently unknown. Certain factors, however, are known to increase a woman’s risk of going into labor prematurely.
What Is Pre-Term Labor?
Premature birth occurs when the female body begins preparing for birth too soon during pregnancy. Because a typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, uterine contractions occurring before the 37th week are considered premature. The earlier a baby is, the lower its chances of survival and, as a result, the more the chances of the child experiencing problems after birth. Premature birth is more likely in women who have one or more of the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- Heart sickness
- Kidney disease
- High blood pressure
- Pregnant women who are younger than 17 or older than 35 have a higher chance of giving birth early.
Causes Of Premature Birth
To avoid endangering themselves or their child, all women should be aware of these common, but usually avoidable causes of premature birth.
1. Physical Or Mental Pressure
According to one study, severe emotional or physical stress can cause the release of hormones that can lead to early labor contractions. It will also increase the chances of a low-birth-weight baby. Those who stand for long periods of time or have physically and emotionally demanding jobs are more likely to have a child at a young age. Pregnant women should try to eliminate external sources of stress from their lives and mitigate the effects of stress with light exercise and adequate sleep.
2. History Of Pre-term Birth Or Abortions
The likelihood of a woman having a premature birth is directly proportional to the number of previous premature births she has had and how early they occurred. The more full-term babies a woman has had, the less likely it is that her next pregnancy will be premature. Premature births are also more common in women who have previously had abortions. Abortions are thought to cause cervical injury, increasing the likelihood that the cervix will open abnormally early during subsequent pregnancies.
3. Multiple Pregnancies
Multiples cause the womb to stretch more, which will increase the danger of early contraction and so premature birth. The uterus is also extended to some extent that it begins to contract before the baby has developed.
4. Infections
STDs, as well as a microorganism or infection anywhere on a woman’s urinary or reproductive tract, can increase the risk of premature labor and delivery. Premature birth may also be linked to bloodstream viral infections. Such diseases include gonorrhea, chlamydia, and bacterial vaginosis.
5. Short Pregnancy Intervals
Waiting for less than a year between consecutive pregnancies nearly doubles the likelihood of premature birth. Girls should wait at least 18 months after giving birth before conceiving again. Fetal distress is also a major cause of preterm births.
6. Infections of the Gums
Pregnancy hormones increase the susceptibility of pregnant women to periodontal diseases. This could be an inflammatory gum disease caused by specific microorganisms. The bacteria that affect the gums spread throughout the body and reach the fetus through the mother’s bloodstream. Some of the inflammatory cases associated with premature birth and low birth weight can be attributed to this. Pregnant women should take more precautions and practice better oral hygiene.
How to Prevent Premature Births?
Many factors lead to the birth of premature babies. However, having proper prenatal care reduces the chances of having a premature birth significantly. Eating a healthy diet before and during pregnancy is another important preventive measure. Make an effort to consume a variety of whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits. It is also strongly advised to take folic acid and calcium supplements. Drink a lot of water each day. The recommended amount is eight glasses per day, but if you exercise, you’ll have to drink more.
If you’re worried about having a premature baby, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to recommend additional preventive measures that can help lower your risk of premature birth.
Book an appointment now to answer all your queries. You can book an appointment with top gynecologists in Faisalabad through Marham by calling Marham helpline: 0311-1222398 or by an online appointment booking facility through the website or Marham mobile app. Go for diagnostic tests through Marham’s lab test booking online.
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