With a growing number of babies being born before 37 weeks (prematurely), experts are urging parents to be more aware of risk factors and the importance of timely medical care
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There has been a surge in preterm births in India, prompting concern among doctors. Experts are witnessing an uptick in a greater number of babies born before the full term of pregnancy, which can lead to serious health issues.
For the uninitiated, preterm birth refers to the delivery of a baby before completing 37 weeks of gestation. These babies often have underdeveloped organs, especially lungs, and may struggle with breathing, feeding, maintaining body temperature, or fighting infections. “The causes are high maternal stress or chronic health conditions, multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets), infections during pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, and poor nutrition or inadequate prenatal care. Complications of preterm birth can include long-term issues like vision and hearing problems, developmental delays, or even serious conditions like cerebral palsy in extreme cases,” says Dr Pooja Chaudhary, consultant - Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Laparoscopic surgery at Motherhood Hospitals in Greater Noida.
Dr Chaudhary adds, “Nowadays more women are delaying pregnancy into their late 30’s, Modern lifestyle habits, rising maternal age, and increased cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and diabetes are contributing significantly to preterm deliveries. Chronic stress also plays a major role in preterm deliveries. We observe some pregnant women ignore the warning signs and not take up antenatal checkups seriously. Mothers understand that regular check-ups, stress management, and proper nutrition throughout pregnancy are the need of the hour. It is imperative for pregnant women to exercise caution when it comes to their health. Follow the instructions given by the doctor only for a smooth pregnancy journey.”
Dr. Akshay Mehta, senior consultant - Neonatology & Paediatrics at Motherhood Hospitals, Greater Noida. said, “We are seeing a 41 per cent rise in preterm babies over a span of six years requiring NICU care, because preterm births are at a higher risk of breathing issues, feeding intolerance, long term issues like vision loss , hearing impairment or even development delays and in certain extreme cases, condition like cerebral palsy can develop and managing these fragile newborns demands precision and constant monitoring. Many tend to suffer from respiratory, cardiac, kidney, and liver problems and need constant support. While medical advances have improved survival, the emotional stress and financial burden on families can be overwhelming. This is why preventing preterm births through regular antenatal care is just as important as ensuring expert neonatal support after delivery.”
Both the experts -- gynecologist and peadiatrician come together to identify the high-risk pregnancy which can lead to a preterm birth in the future, this holistic approach helps in identifying and treating the mother and the child with utmost care. Experts track the preterm birth risk through regular ultrasounds, blood pressure monitoring, insulin tests and cervical health and cervical length scams. Pregnant women who show signs of early contraction, fluid leakage or unexplained pains should seek immediate care.
Preterm birth is not just a neonatal issue, it starts with mothers’ health and how well the pregnancy is managed. Preventive health checks play a key role in managing it. Keeping a check on nutrition, stress, blood pressure, diabetes or conditions like PCOS is very important.
The experts recommend couples who are planning pregnancy, especially those in or above 30s to seek preconception counselling and follow medical advice closely. Protecting a newborn’s future starts long before birth with timely care of the mother.
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