Finding out you’re pregnant can bring about a mix of emotions. At the drop of a hat, you may go from excitement and joy to overwhelm and trepidation and every emotion and stage in between. You’ll likely spend much of your free time pouring over your stages of pregnancy week by week. You may find yourself consumed with learning what to expect and what you should be doing for each stage; from the first to the fourth trimester, provided you carry your baby to full-term (40 weeks).
But what happens when baby comes early? Is there anything that can be done to prevent premature birth and are there any complications that can occur as a result of being born too early? According to the March of Dimes — an organization that works to improve the lives of mothers and babies — the long-term effects of premature birth can include cognitive disabilities, lung disease, hearing loss, vision impairments, and cerebral palsy.
Read on to learn what is the cause of premature birth and what can pregnant women can do to decrease their risk of going into preterm labor.
What is considered premature birth?
How to prevent premature birth
So, how to prevent premature birth? There are a few things in your control when it comes to having a healthy pregnancy.
Good prenatal care as soon as you think you might be pregnant is key to reducing the risks of premature birth. A prenatal vitamin with folic acid and iron will be beneficial during this time. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, be sure to seek treatment and get any health concerns under control.
Eat right, exercise, and steer clear of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. Seek treatment if you find yourself having difficulty quitting. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists website offers a comprehensive list of resources for those who need help quitting unhealthy substances. And of course, if something feels off, don’t hesitate to contact your health care provider right away.
