Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access

Premature Birth

A premature birth is a birth that takes place more than three weeks before the baby's estimated due date. In other words, a premature birth is one that occurs before the start of the 37th week of pregnancy. Premature babies, especially those born very early, often have complicated medical problems. A pregnancy normally lasts about 40 weeks. Some risk factors for a premature birth include having a previous premature birth and being pregnant with multiples. Complications associated with a premature birth include immature lungs, difficulty regulating body temperature, poor feeding and slow weight gain. Premature babies may need longer or more intense nursery care, medication and sometimes surgery.