The Common Reasons for Premature Birth

Pregnant women or families look forward to the arrival of their newborn at the estimated due dates. But some family's expectations end before they're ready. Birth is known to be premature when it occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy. A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks.

Premature, or preterm birth affects millions of babies, and it is the major cause of infant death globally (1). The reasons for preterm birth can be as complex as the journey of pregnancy. As such, the exact causes are not clear. Still, some factors can increase the risk of having premature labor. This article explores the causes, risk factors, and depth of preterm pregnancy.

6 Common Causes of Premature Birth

Several factors can disrupt pregnancy, leading to premature birth. Here's a breakdown of some key culprits:

Uterine and Cervical Issues
The uterus is a muscular home for a growing baby, and the cervix the opening to the uterus, plays a crucial role. In some cases, a weakened or irritated cervix (incompetent cervix) or abnormalities in the uterus (fibroids, malformations) can increase the risk of preterm labor.

Infections
Uterine infections, including bacterial vaginosis and Group B Strep, can trigger inflammation that stimulates contractions and leads to preterm birth. Pregnant women need to receive prenatal care to screen for and treat infections.

Multiple Gestation
Carrying twins, triplets, or more (multiple gestation) puts a strain on the uterus, stretching it more than a singleton pregnancy. This can lead to an earlier delivery, with about 60% of multiples born prematurely.

Chronic Conditions and Pregnancy
Pre-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases can create an imbalanced environment in the womb, potentially leading to preterm labor. Working with healthcare providers to manage these conditions throughout pregnancy is essential.

Lifestyle Choices and Pregnancy Outcomes
Lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use are known risk factors for preterm birth. These substances can impact the baby's development and increase the risk of complications that might necessitate early delivery.

Socioeconomic Factors and the Invisible Stressors
Social and economic factors like poverty, lack of access to health care, and chronic stress can have a profound impact on pregnancy outcomes. These challenges can lead to inadequate nutrition, delayed prenatal care, and increased inflammation, potentially contributing to preterm birth.

Other Factors of Preterm Birth

Despite medical advancements, in most cases, the cause of preterm birth remains elusive. This is often referred to as idiopathic preterm birth, and it can be daunting for both medical professionals and families. Researchers suspect a complex interplay of factors, including genetics, the mother's immune system, and even the makeup of the microbiome (the community of bacteria) in the vagina, might be at play.

The Spectrum of Prematurity

Preterm birth is categorized by gestational age, with earlier deliveries posing a greater risk for health complications in the baby. Here's a brief overview:

1. Extremely Preterm (less than 28 weeks): These babies are the most vulnerable and require specialized care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
2. Very Preterm (28 to 32 weeks): While facing challenges, babies in this category have a higher chance of survival with advanced medical support.
3. Moderately Preterm (32 to 34 weeks): These babies may need some time in the NICU or specialized care but generally have a better outlook.
4. Late Preterm (34 to 37 weeks): While still considered early, these babies often experience fewer health issues and may need minimal or no NICU stay.

How Can I Prevent Premature Birth?

While we can't control all the factors contributing to preterm birth, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Prenatal Care is Paramount: Regular prenatal checkups allow your healthcare provider to monitor your health, identify potential problems early, and provide guidance for a healthy pregnancy.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly (as advised by your doctor), and get adequate sleep. Manage stress through techniques like yoga or meditation.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being underweight or overweight before pregnancy can increase the risk of complications, including preterm birth.

Conclusion

A preterm birth can be a challenging experience for families, but with advanced medical care and support, these precious early arrivals can thrive. Neonatal care units offer life-saving technologies and a team of dedicated professionals to give the newborn the best possible start in life. With love, support, and a fighting spirit, many preterm babies grow into healthy, strong individuals.