Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be nerve-wracking — particularly if something doesn’t go according to plan. Premature birth is one of the many fears mothers-to-be face. Oswego County OB-GYN PC with offices in Oswego and Fulton, NY, is one of the area’s most trusted obstetrical and gynecological practices. Their compassionate and experienced staff explains the logistics of premature births.

Premature Birth Questions Explained by Obstetricians 

1. What Is a Premature Birth? 

Premature babies are those who are born at least three weeks too early. Typically, pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, although babies can be born healthily after 37. The three types of premature births are late preterm, very preterm, and extremely preterm. Late preterm occurs between 34 and 37 weeks, very preterm are at least 32 weeks, and extremely preterm occurs at less than 28 weeks.

2. How Common Is It? 

The premature birth rate is different in various places around the world. But, in the United States and other developed nations, it has decreased over the past several years. In the U.S. today, about one in 10 infants are born prematurely. The percentage of babies born with a low birth weight — or less than five pounds and eight ounces — is slightly over eight percent. 

3. Why Are Babies Born Premature? 

Some risk factors include pregnancy with multiples, history of premature births, smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, using illicit drugs, gynecological issues, chronic health problems — like diabetes or high blood pressure — or certain infections.

4. What Health Problems Do Premature Babies Face? 

Premature babies’ survival rate depends on various factors, including how early they are born and whether there are defects — such as heart or lung problems. Doctors and scientists continue to study premature births and advanced techniques and technologies to help premature infants survive and thrive. Babies that survive may have short or long-term health complications including breathing problems, apnea, anemia, heart issues, jaundice, or an undeveloped immune system. Cerebral palsy; learning impediments; and hearing, vision, and breathing problems may be long-term effects. 

Planning and preparing for motherhood is a journey you don’t have to go alone. If you are pregnant, trust the kind and knowledgeable staff of physicians, midwives, nurse practitioner and physician assistant at  Oswego County OB-GYN PC to help you through every stage of your pregnancy and birth experience. From infertility treatments and family planning to postpartum health care, they offer a comprehensive range of gynecological and obstetric services. Call (315) 343-2590 to speak with a staff member or visit their website for more information about their practice.