Premature Birth Information and Prevention

A Full-term Baby is a Strong Baby

Babies born after the 39^th week of pregnancy have the best possible start in life!

Important organs, like the baby’s brain and lungs, need that time to grow.
Babies need to be born at a healthy weight to keep warm. Early babies might be to too small to keep warm.
Preterm babies are more likely to have vision and hearing problems, learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, breathing problems, and other health issues.
Even “late preterm” babies (born at 34-37 weeks) are at higher risk of health issues than full term babies

Start prenatal care with Doctor, Midwife, or Nurse-Practitioner as soon as you know you are pregnant and don’t miss any appointments.
Tell your prenatal care provider that you do not want an induction or C-Section prior to 39 weeks of pregnancy unless you or your baby are in danger
Eat well-balanced, healthy meals
Do not diet or try to lose weight
Do not smoke or be around other people who are smoking
Do not drink alcohol, including beer and wine
Do not take drugs or medicine without talking to your healthcare provider first
Take a prenatal vitamin daily
Get regular exercise
Minimize stress
Seek immediate medical care for any infections you might have
See a dentist: dental infections can also be a trigger for pre-term birth
Know the signs of early labor

Having had a preterm baby in the past – let your healthcare provider know if you have ever had a baby come early
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or dental infections
Gaining too little or too much weight while you are pregnant
Having babies too close together - wait at least a year after your last baby was born to become pregnant again - two years is even better
Stress

You can find more information at the March of Dimes website.