Pregnancy and childbirth are stages in a woman’s life that are always filled with new experiences. However, premature births are can be extremely unsettling for both the mother and the child, and they are often associated with several complications. Premature birth implies the early birth of a baby, at a stage when it is not fully developed to survive in the external environment. As such, premature births can lead to the death of the new born baby. There are several causes for premature births, some of which have been described below.
One of the major causes of premature births is premature rupture of membranes, also known as PROM. While the factors that trigger PROM are still being explored, it is believed that excess amniotic fluid in the womb or the sac containing the baby result in PROM. In such cases, the sac develops a hole that causes the fluid to leak. Premature birth is more common when a woman is carrying twins or multiples. Although there is no cure for PROM, your doctor may recommend tocolytics to suppress labor. This ensures that baby is allowed sufficient time to develop so as to enable it to survive in the external environment.
Another important factor among the primary causes for premature birth is a weakened cervix. Generally, the cervix softens during late pregnancy to allow the baby to be delivered. However, sometimes, the baby grows and starts to push down the cervix. In such cases, the cervix gives way, resulting in premature birth. An abnormality in the shape of the uterus could also lead to premature birth. In most cases, this abnormality can be attributed to uterine infections.
Apart from the above mentioned causes of premature births, the age of the mother also plays an important role in childbirth. If the woman is more than thirty two, the chances of complications during child birth, including premature birth, are more. In such cases, it is very important to consult your doctor in the early stages of pregnancy. Your gynecologist can detect abnormalities in the early stages of pregnancy, which can either be cured by medication or the pregnancy may be terminated to avert unfortunate incidences.
Premature births are a health hazard for both the mother and the baby. As such, it is highly recommended that appropriate precautions be taken from very beginning of pregnancy. Regular consultation with doctors, along with a good diet and abstinence from alcohol, smoking and narcotics are essential for a normal pregnancy and a healthy baby. Regular exercise also helps in increasing the chances of a normal childbirth.
