How to care for premature infants

Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
Updated on June 14, 2025
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Women with premature infants should primarily focus on the following aspects: Firstly, they should ensure proper thermal protection to avoid the baby getting cold, and can use fleece hats for the baby. Secondly, attention should be given to the feeding method; premature infants should start breastfeeding as soon as possible when appropriate. If breast milk is insufficient, special formula milk for premature infants can be used. Thirdly, special attention should be given to managing the baby's breathing since premature infants might experience respiratory pauses, requiring close monitoring. Fourthly, due to the low body weight and poor immune function of premature infants, making them prone to infections, it is crucial to prevent infections and avoid cross-infection through frequent handwashing and maintaining good indoor ventilation and hygiene. Fifthly, it is important to ensure adequate supplementation of vitamins and trace elements. Sixthly, particular care should be taken with the skin and mucous membrane care, as premature infants have delicate skin and are prone to skin infections. Lastly, timely and regular vaccinations are also very important.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does placenta previa cause preterm birth?

When a placenta previa occurs, it is likely to lead to premature birth. Placenta previa is a condition where, after 28 weeks of pregnancy, the placenta is positioned low in the uterus, often below the presenting part of the fetus, and attaches to the lower segment of the uterus or near the internal os of the cervix. In the late stages of pregnancy, dilation of the cervix can cause the placenta to be misaligned with the uterine wall, leading to recurrent, painless bleeding. When the bleeding reaches a certain amount, it can easily lead to premature separation of the placenta, inducing uterine contractions and the onset of premature birth. In cases of placenta previa with significant vaginal bleeding, it is necessary to terminate the pregnancy promptly.

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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 Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Does a low-lying placenta cause preterm birth?

In cases of placenta previa, there is also a certain risk of preterm birth. Generally, in the late stages of pregnancy, a persistent low-lying placenta may have some impact on the development of the placenta and embryo. Excessive physical activity or normal daily activities may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. Long-term blood clots pressing on the cervix can also promote cervical dilation and lead to preterm birth. Therefore, it is generally necessary to rest in bed and avoid excessive exercise after placenta previa occurs, in order to reduce the risk of bleeding.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is placenta previa likely to lead to preterm birth?

Placenta previa refers to the condition where, after 28 weeks of pregnancy, the placenta reaches or covers the internal opening of the cervix. There are multiple causes for placenta previa, and its occurrence does not necessarily lead to preterm birth. Clinically, placenta previa mainly results in irregular vaginal bleeding, which increases the risk of preterm birth. Therefore, it is recommended that regular prenatal visits be conducted at a hospital when placenta previa occurs. Treatment measures should be taken based on the specific condition of the placenta, and treatment to preserve the pregnancy may be necessary at times. In cases of placenta previa, it is advisable to rest in bed as much as possible and avoid strenuous activities.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Causes of Premature Birth

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.