Preterm delivery

Preterm delivery refers to the birth of a baby before the 37th week of pregnancy. It is a significant cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity, and can lead to long-term developmental issues in children.

Causes

The exact causes of preterm delivery are not fully understood. However, several factors have been identified that increase the risk of preterm birth. These include multiple pregnancies, infections during pregnancy, certain chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and certain lifestyle factors such as smoking and drug use.

Diagnosis

Preterm delivery can be diagnosed through a variety of methods. These include ultrasound imaging, which can determine the gestational age of the fetus, and tests to detect signs of premature labor, such as a shortened cervix or the presence of fetal fibronectin in the vagina.

Treatment

The treatment for preterm delivery depends on the cause and the gestational age of the fetus. Treatments may include medications to stop labor, corticosteroids to speed up the baby's lung development, and antibiotics to treat infections. In some cases, if the baby's health is at risk, delivery may be necessary.

Prevention

Prevention of preterm delivery involves managing risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. This includes regular prenatal care, avoiding smoking and drug use, and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

See also

• Premature birth
• Neonatal intensive care unit
• Prenatal care

This obstetrics related article is a stub.