Does premature birth affect intelligence?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on January 06, 2025
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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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Does low amniotic fluid lead to preterm birth?

When there is too little amniotic fluid, it can potentially cause preterm labor. Insufficient amniotic fluid can lead to fetal hypoxia and asphyxia within the uterine cavity, and frequent fetal movements may induce uterine contractions leading to preterm labor. If reduced amniotic fluid is detected during an examination, it is important to promptly identify the cause and actively pursue treatment. Initially, drinking more water can help improve the condition, and water can also be directly injected into the amniotic cavity to improve the situation. If an examination reveals frequent fetal movements or a reduced fetal heart rate, indicating hypoxia, prompt intervention is needed, and if necessary, pregnancy termination may be considered.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Do frequent Braxton Hicks contractions lead to preterm labor?

In the late stages of pregnancy, there may be occurrences of Braxton Hicks contractions, generally happening at a low frequency of about two to three times per day. Some individuals experience these false contractions primarily at night, which disappear during the day. This is considered normal physiological behavior in the late stages of pregnancy. If there is a frequent occurrence of Braxton Hicks contractions, it may also lead to the dilation of the cervix, causing premature labor. Therefore, if this situation arises and the fetus is not yet full-term, it is recommended to go to the hospital for an examination in a timely manner, and symptomatic treatment to maintain the pregnancy may be necessary.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Is a posterior placenta more likely to lead to premature birth?

The placenta is divided into anterior and posterior walls, with the posterior wall being a normal location for the placenta, which is unrelated [to preterm birth]. Generally, there is a hereditary tendency for preterm birth, and it is more likely to occur in individuals with certain physical constitutions or in cases of twin pregnancies. Additionally, people with gestational diabetes are also prone to preterm birth. Therefore, the posterior wall of the placenta has no correlation with preterm birth. Conditions like placenta previa or premature placental detachment are placental positions that can lead to preterm birth issues, and some people may experience preterm birth under these circumstances.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is prematurity prone to jaundice?

Premature infants often exhibit jaundice. This is because during premature birth, the baby's gas distension function is not yet perfect, the liver's detoxification capabilities are relatively weak, and the ability to process bilirubin is poor. Therefore, jaundice easily occurs, and the physiological jaundice in premature infants is more severe compared to full-term infants. Due to the reduced sucking ability and swallowing reflex in premature infants and their underdeveloped intestinal function, most babies cannot be normally breastfed after birth. The increased absorption of bilirubin in the intestines exacerbates the jaundice in premature infants. It is advised for premature infants to initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible and some medications can also be used to promote liver enzyme activity.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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How to prevent preterm birth

The causes of preterm birth are numerous, and prevention mainly involves addressing these causes. For etiological reasons, proactive treatment of some chronic diseases is necessary. For pregnant women with a history of preterm birth, it is crucial to pay close attention two to three weeks before the previous preterm birth date. They should avoid overexertion, abstain from sexual activity, and rest in bed until the expected due date. It is also important to identify the causes of preterm birth, such as cervical insufficiency. If so, a cerclage surgery can be performed around the 14th week of pregnancy. If a pregnant woman shows signs of labor or preterm birth, she should be given oxygen immediately, and an injection of vitamin K should be administered to prevent intracranial hemorrhage in the newborn.