Preterm Birth And Prevention

Preterm birth is the birth of a baby before the 37th week of gestation. It is the leading cause of newborn death in the United States and can lead to long-term health problems in the baby. The causes of preterm birth are not always clear, but some factors that can increase the risk include: infection, smoking, poor nutrition, stress, and certain health conditions in the mother. Though the majority of preterm birth is unpreventable, there are some strategies that can be used to reduce the risk of preterm delivery. Women should receive prenatal care to monitor their health and the health of their baby. Women should also speak to their healthcare provider about their risk factors and discuss strategies to reduce their risk. Women should maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a nutritious diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and getting regular exercise. Stress management techniques can also be helpful, such as meditation and yoga. Taking folic acid prior to and during pregnancy has also been shown to reduce the risk. Women should also be aware of signs and symptoms of preterm labor, including contractions, pelvic pressure, and vaginal bleeding. If these symptoms occur, the woman should call her healthcare provider immediately.