learn the facts:
Prematurity has been escalating steadily and alarmingly over the past two decades. One out of eight babies is born prematurely in the United States. Preterm delivery can happen to any pregnant woman.
What We Know and What We Don’t
Many questions remain about premature birth. Here's what we know and what we don't know.
Why Do Women Deliver Early?
In nearly half of premature births, the cause is unknown. But researchers have made some progress in learning the causes of prematurity.
Who Will Deliver Early?
It's very difficult to predict which women will deliver prematurely. But doctors know that certain women are at high risk of premature delivery.
Predicting Prematurity
Some tests are fairly accurate in identifying women who are at increased risk of premature delivery, while others have proven ineffective.
Who Is at Increased Risk?
Preterm labor can happen to any pregnant woman. Researchers have identified some risk factors, but still cannot predict which women will give birth too early.
Can Treatment Prevent Preterm Delivery?
Over the years, doctors have tried various strategies to help prevent premature delivery. None of these are routinely effective, though they may help some women.
Complications in the Newborn
Most premature babies catch up to their full-term peers within a year or two of birth. But some premature babies are not so lucky. Some of these children struggle every day to survive.
References
This bibliography cites references used to prepare the section “Learn the Facts.”
