Causes of Premature Birth

Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
Updated on September 15, 2024
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Generally, there are many reasons that can cause symptoms of preterm birth. Normally, due to reasons such as cervical dilation, or the occurrence of regular abdominal pain, preterm labor may be induced. In some cases, long-term vaginal inflammatory conditions can lead to premature rupture of membranes, or cervical canal dilation may also cause preterm birth. If symptoms of preterm birth occur at present, it is necessary to actively suppress contractions, protect the fetus, and provide symptomatic treatment. If this is ineffective, it is advisable to actively prepare for rescuing and caring for the newborn.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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What does it feel like when the cervix opens prematurely?

Under normal circumstances, if preterm labor is already confirmed and the cervix is fully dilated, it is generally considered inevitable and preparations for the active resuscitation of the newborn should be made. Typically, if the cervix is fully dilated due to preterm labor, regular abdominal pain may first occur along with discomfort in the lower abdomen, indicating strong uterine contractions. After the uterus contracts, this leads to continuous dilation of the cervix until it expands to ten centimeters. Once fully dilated, the next steps in treatment are carried out, closely monitoring the condition of the premature infant after birth and providing symptomatic medication if necessary.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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What should I do if a premature baby has poor gastrointestinal health?

In the process of premature birth, due to the incomplete development of various organs and the nervous system, a series of complications may occur in various systems. If there is currently gastrointestinal discomfort after premature birth, it still needs to be adjusted in many aspects. Firstly, during the feeding process, it is recommended to pay attention to the feeding scale of the formula, and it is also necessary to maintain the cleanliness of bottle feeding. If frequent diarrhea and other gastrointestinal conditions occur, some probiotics for the intestines can be applied for adjustment, or some antidiarrheal medications can be used for symptomatic treatment.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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What is the earliest gestational week that a premature baby can survive?

Preterm infants, how many weeks can survive, first let's talk about the concept of preterm birth. The concept of preterm birth is more than 28 weeks but less than 37 weeks, this is called premature birth. However, with the improvement of neonatal resuscitation technology, in China, if it’s after 26 weeks, the vast majority of newborns can also survive. But after survival, the cost is quite high. For instance, if it's in a top-tier hospital, the cost for newborns born between 26 and 28 weeks can be around several hundred thousand yuan. So, even after some medical insurance policy reimbursements, you would still have to spend around tens of thousands of yuan on your own.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does premature birth affect intelligence?

Premature birth generally does not affect a baby's intellectual development, as the brain is mostly well-developed by the time of premature birth, and intelligence is not greatly affected. With appropriate nutrition post-birth, the intelligence of premature babies can generally recover to that of average children. However, if the baby experiences intrauterine hypoxia during premature birth, this can affect the brain cells and may even lead to cerebral palsy. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor the baby's diet and neurological responsiveness if premature birth occurs. If there are concerns, a hospital check-up can be conducted to promptly identify any issues with the child.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is premature birth hereditary?

Premature birth is not hereditary. There are many causes of premature birth, including reasons associated with the pregnant woman herself, such as hypertension and diabetes during pregnancy, as well as concurrent conditions like chronic nephritis and hyperthyroidism, which can lead to premature birth. Additionally, premature birth can be caused by a relaxed cervix, poor uterine development, congenital uterine malformations, and uterine fibroids. Furthermore, trauma to the abdomen during pregnancy, long-distance and prolonged travel, fatigue, and excessive emotional fluctuations can also lead to premature birth. Therefore, these factors related to premature birth are not associated with genetics.