Home / Glossary Preterm baby By Motherly Editors April 3, 2024 Rectangle Inside this article DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Preterm babyFrequently Asked Questions about Preterm BabiesWhat is a Preterm Baby?What are the risks for a Preterm Baby?How is the health of a Preterm Baby monitored?What kind of care does a Preterm Baby need at home?Is it possible for a Preterm Baby to grow up healthy?Related Motherhood TermsSources for More Information Table of Contents Toggle DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Preterm babyFrequently Asked Questions about Preterm BabiesWhat is a Preterm Baby?What are the risks for a Preterm Baby?How is the health of a Preterm Baby monitored?What kind of care does a Preterm Baby need at home?Is it possible for a Preterm Baby to grow up healthy?Related Motherhood TermsSources for More Information Definition A preterm baby, also known as a premature baby, is a baby that is born before the start of the 37th week of pregnancy. Normally, a pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. These babies require special care as they may not be fully developed at birth. Key Takeaways A preterm baby, often referred to as a ‘premie’, is a baby born before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy, or more than three weeks early from the predicted due date. This early birth results in the baby being underdeveloped and may cause health issues. Preterm babies require special care and attention due to their underdeveloped organs and systems. Depending on how early the baby was born, they may require support with breathing, feeding and warmth, often within a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Long-term outcomes for preterm babies can vary greatly. Some may have developmental and health issues throughout their life, while others can grow and develop just like full-term babies. Regular monitoring and appropriate care can improve the outcomes for these babies. Importance The term “preterm baby” is crucial in motherhood as it refers to a baby who is born before 37 weeks of gestation, rather than the typical 40. This distinction is vital because premature babies often face unique health challenges and may require specialized care. The complications that these babies might experience include difficulties in breathing, heart problems, brain complications, temperature control problems, gastrointestinal problems, blood issues, a weakened immune system, and more. Understanding this term can ensure that potential risks are recognized early, appropriate medical attention is sought, and the baby receives the necessary care for a healthier start in life. Explanation The term “preterm baby” refers to a baby that is born before the completion of the 37th week of pregnancy. This designation is crucial in guiding the healthcare procedures and treatment strategies that the baby will likely require following their birth. Babies born prematurely generally have a lower birth weight and can often experience medical issues that full-term babies do not, such as breathing difficulties, underdeveloped organs, and problems with feeding and digestion. They may also be at a higher risk for long-term health issues such as vision and hearing problems, learning disabilities, and general developmental delay. Therefore, understanding if a baby is preterm can alter the approach healthcare professionals take to care both during and after delivery. Familiarity with this term is crucial for parents, as having a preterm baby may necessitate additional resources and support systems, such as specialized neonatal care. Parents need to understand the potential challenges and risks associated with premature birth to ensure their baby gets the necessary care right from the start. Every extra day in the womb is beneficial for a baby’s development, thus knowing a baby is preterm helps parents and healthcare professionals prepare for additional support that might be needed. It is also important to note that though the challenges may seem daunting, many preterm babies grow into healthy children and adults with the right care and early interventions. Examples of Preterm baby A mother delivers her baby at 32 weeks of pregnancy instead of the usual 40 weeks. The baby is considered a preterm baby and usually requires special care and monitoring in the neonatal intensive care unit. A celebrity recently gave birth to twins at 28 weeks. Even though they were born early, with the help of modern medicine and constant care, they eventually grew healthy – raising awareness about preterm babies. A family unexpectedly welcomed their baby at 34 weeks when the mother went into spontaneous labor. Despite being a preterm baby, the newborn was able to thrive with appropriate medical attention and support. Frequently Asked Questions about Preterm Babies What is a Preterm Baby? A preterm baby, also known as a premature baby, is a baby that is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy have been completed. Normally, a pregnancy should last about 40 weeks. What are the risks for a Preterm Baby? Preterm babies are at risk for many health complications, including breathing problems, feeding difficulties, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, and vision and hearing problems. How is the health of a Preterm Baby monitored? The health of a preterm baby is monitored closely in the hospital by a team of neonatologists and pediatricians. They may need to stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a period of time. What kind of care does a Preterm Baby need at home? Once home, a preterm baby may need special care such as more frequent feedings, temperature monitoring, and possibly oxygen therapy. They will also need regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their growth and development. Is it possible for a Preterm Baby to grow up healthy? Yes, with the right care and attention, many preterm babies grow up to be completely healthy. However, they may be at an increased risk for certain health and developmental issues and should be monitored closely as they grow. Related Motherhood Terms Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Low Birth Weight Neonatal Resuscitation Premature Infant Complications Kangaroo Mother Care Sources for More Information March of Dimes: This organization provides resources about babies’ health, including preterm babies. World Health Organization (WHO): An international health organization with scientific studies and information about preterm births and care. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): A professional association dedicated to improving women’s health, including topics on preterm birth. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The U.S. health protection agency provides a wide range of information, including health data and advice on preterm babies. Inside this article DefinitionKey TakeawaysImportanceExplanationExamples of Preterm babyFrequently Asked Questions about Preterm BabiesWhat is a Preterm Baby?What are the risks for a Preterm Baby?How is the health of a Preterm Baby monitored?What kind of care does a Preterm Baby need at home?Is it possible for a Preterm Baby to grow up healthy?Related Motherhood TermsSources for More Information More terms C-Section February 26, 2024 Parental Leave February 26, 2024 Perineal tear April 3, 2024 Reflux April 2, 2024 Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan April 2, 2024