Title: Premature birth & premature babies | Raising Children Network
Headings: Premature labour, birth and babies
Premature labour, birth and babies
Premature birth: the basics
How premature babies look
Premature birth: risk factors
Premature labour: signs and symptoms
Premature babies: survival and development
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Content: The following factors increase the likelihood of a premature birth: a previous premature birth
some conditions of the uterus or cervix, like fibroids or a weakened cervix
a multiple pregnancy – twins or more
a maternal infection or maternal condition that means the birth needs to be brought on quickly for the safety of mother and baby – for example, pre-eclampsia
conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. There are also some other factors that are associated with a premature birth. These include poor or not enough nutrition, too much physical activity, smoking, alcohol and other drug use, too much stress, anxiety, depression, obesity, underweight and lack of prenatal care. Being under 17 years or over 35 years can also be a factor in premature birth. The best way to make sure your pregnancy goes well is to go to your regular antenatal appointments and follow your doctor’s or midwife’s advice about: eating well
not smoking, not drinking alcohol and not taking other drugs
doing the right amount of physical activity
managing stress, depression and anxiety. Even if you follow all the pregnancy advice, you might still have a premature baby. But if you look after yourself, you’ll have done the very best you can for your baby. If you think you might be at risk of premature birth, talk to your doctor or other health professional.