Maternal, Infant and Child Health

Preterm birth: Anticipation and Expectation

Premature babies are born before their bodies and organ systems have completely matured. These babies are often small, with low birth weight, and they may need help breathing, eating, fighting infection, and staying warm. Very premature babies, those born before 28 weeks, are especially vulnerable. Many of their organs may not be ready for life outside the mother's uterus and may be too immature to function well