A typical pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks, but if a baby is born before the 37th week, it is classified as premature.

Premature birth is often triggered by the mother’s health issues, including:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Heart or kidney problems

• Infections of the amniotic sac, vagina, or urinary tract

Babies born prematurely are generally at a higher risk of various health issues. The earlier the baby is born, the greater the likelihood of complications, which may include:

Respiratory Disorders

Premature babies are particularly vulnerable to breathing problems due to their underdeveloped respiratory systems. If the lungs lack surfactant (a substance that helps the lungs expand), the baby may experience respiratory distress syndrome, which occurs because the lungs cannot expand and contract normally.

Premature babies are also at risk of a condition called bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a lung disorder. Additionally, they may experience prolonged breathing pauses, known as apnea.

Heart Diseases

The most common heart issues in premature babies are patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and low blood pressure (hypotension).

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital defect where there is an abnormal connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. The Cleveland Clinic explains that the pulmonary artery carries blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs, where it becomes oxygenated. The oxygenated blood then returns to the left ventricle, from where it is pumped out through the aorta to the rest of the body.

Brain Complications

The earlier a baby is born, the higher the risk of brain bleeding, known as intraventricular hemorrhage. While minor hemorrhages often heal with minimal impact, severe bleeding can cause permanent brain damage.

Body Temperature Regulation

Babies born before 28 weeks are especially at risk of hypothermia. Premature babies lose body heat quickly because they lack the body fat reserves of full-term babies. A drop in body temperature can lead to hypothermia, which is dangerous for these infants.

Digestive Issues

Premature infants are at an increased risk of gastrointestinal problems such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious condition caused by inflammation that leads to tissue death and the formation of holes (perforations) in the intestines. Bacteria can then enter the bloodstream or stomach through these holes.

Although some cases of NEC are mild, it can also become severe and life-threatening for babies.

Blood Problems

Premature babies are more likely to experience blood-related issues like anemia and jaundice. Anemia occurs when there aren't enough red blood cells, a condition that’s more pronounced in premature infants compared to full-term babies.

Jaundice occurs when the baby's blood contains excess bilirubin, a substance produced by the liver or red blood cells. Premature babies are at a higher risk for jaundice.

Metabolic Disorders

Premature babies often face metabolic problems, including low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Their body stores are small, which contributes to this condition. Premature infants also struggle to convert stored glucose into usable energy.

Immune System Deficiencies

Premature babies typically have an underdeveloped immune system, which makes them more susceptible to infections. These infections can spread quickly through the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, which can spread to other organs and potentially be life-threatening.

Premature babies require specialized care, often from specialists like doctors for the brain and nervous system, ophthalmologists, pulmonologists, and others.

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