Pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting time, but it can also be a time of worry and anxiety. One of the biggest concerns for many pregnant women is the risk of premature birth. Premature birth is defined as a birth that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and it can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. Women who are eight months pregnant (32 to 35 weeks) are at an increased risk of premature birth, which is why it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labor and to know what to do if you think you are in labor.
There are a number of factors that can increase a woman's risk of premature birth, including: having a history of premature birth, carrying multiples, having certain medical conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, and being pregnant with a large baby. Other risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs.
If you know you are at an increased risk of premature birth, being aware of its signs and symptoms will help you get help more easily. Talk to your provider about your risk factors and what to do if you think you are in labor.
Why 8 Months Pregnant Is Dangerous
Premature birth risks for mother and baby.
- Increased risk of premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Respiratory problems
- Jaundice
- Cerebral palsy
- Infant death
- Maternal complications
- Cesarean section
Knowing the risks and taking steps to prevent premature birth can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Increased risk of premature birth
The risk of premature birth increases significantly at 8 months of pregnancy. This is because the baby's lungs and other organs are not yet fully developed and they may not be able to function properly outside the womb. Premature babies are also more likely to have respiratory problems, jaundice, cerebral palsy, and other health problems. They may also have difficulty feeding and gaining weight, and they may require special care in the hospital.
There are a number of factors that can increase a woman's risk of premature birth, including:
- Having a history of premature birth
- Carrying multiples
- Having certain medical conditions, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes
- Being pregnant with a large baby
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illegal drugs
If you are at an increased risk of premature birth, your doctor may recommend that you take certain steps to reduce your risk, such as:
- Taking progesterone supplements
- Getting regular prenatal care
- Managing your medical conditions
- Quitting smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs
Even if you are not at an increased risk of premature birth, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preterm labor. These include:
- Regular contractions that are getting stronger and closer together
- A dull ache in your back that doesn't go away
- Pelvic pressure or a feeling that your baby is pushing down
- A change in your vaginal discharge, such as an increase in watery or bloody discharge
If you think you may be in preterm labor, call your doctor or midwife immediately.
Premature birth is a serious complication of pregnancy, but it can be prevented in many cases. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Low birth weight
Babies born prematurely are often low birth weight, which means they weigh less than 2,500 grams (5 pounds, 8 ounces). Low birth weight babies are at an increased risk of health problems, both in the short term and the long term.
- Increased risk of death: Low birth weight babies are more likely to die in the first year of life than babies born at a healthy weight.
Increased risk of health problems: Low birth weight babies are more likely to have respiratory problems, jaundice, cerebral palsy, and other health problems. They may also have difficulty feeding and gaining weight, and they may require special care in the hospital.
Increased risk of chronic diseases: Low birth weight babies are more likely to develop chronic diseases later in life, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Increased risk of developmental delays: Low birth weight babies are more likely to have developmental delays, such as problems with learning, speech, and behavior.Preventing premature birth is the best way to prevent low birth weight. However, if a baby is born prematurely, there are a number of things that can be done to help them grow and develop properly. These include:
- Providing special care in the hospital
- Giving the baby breast milk or a special formula
- Monitoring the baby's growth and development
- Providing early intervention services, if necessary
With proper care, many low birth weight babies can grow and develop into healthy children and adults.
Respiratory problems
Premature babies are at an increased risk of respiratory problems because their lungs are not fully developed. This can make it difficult for them to breathe on their own, and they may require oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. Common respiratory problems in premature babies include:
- Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS): This is a condition in which the baby's lungs are not able to produce enough surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs expand and contract. RDS can lead to severe respiratory failure.
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD): This is a chronic lung disease that can develop in premature babies who have RDS. BPD can cause scarring and damage to the lungs, which can lead to long-term respiratory problems.
- Pneumonia: This is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia is a serious infection that can be life-threatening for premature babies.
- Apnea of prematurity: This is a condition in which the baby stops breathing for short periods of time. Apnea of prematurity is common in premature babies, but it can be dangerous if it is not treated.
Respiratory problems are a leading cause of death and disability in premature babies. However, there are a number of treatments that can help to improve the outcomes for babies with respiratory problems. These treatments include:
- Oxygen therapy
- Mechanical ventilation
- Surfactant replacement therapy
- Antibiotics
- Steroids
With proper treatment, most premature babies with respiratory problems can go on to live healthy lives.
Preventing premature birth is the best way to prevent respiratory problems in babies. However, if a baby is born prematurely, there are a number of things that can be done to help them breathe more easily and avoid serious complications.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. It is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down. Jaundice is common in newborn babies, especially premature babies.
- Increased risk of kernicterus: Kernicterus is a rare but serious condition that can occur in babies with severe jaundice. Kernicterus can cause brain damage and lead to lifelong disabilities, such as cerebral palsy and hearing loss.
- Increased risk of developmental delays: Babies with jaundice are more likely to have developmental delays, such as problems with learning, speech, and behavior.
- Increased risk of kernicterus: Kernicterus is a rare but serious condition that can occur in babies with severe jaundice. Kernicterus can cause brain damage and lead to lifelong disabilities, such as cerebral palsy and hearing loss.
- Increased risk of kernicterus: Kernicterus is a rare but serious condition that can occur in babies with severe jaundice. Kernicterus can cause brain damage and lead to lifelong disabilities, such as cerebral palsy and hearing loss.
Jaundice is usually treated with phototherapy, a treatment that uses light to break down bilirubin. Phototherapy is usually done in the hospital, but it can also be done at home. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary to treat jaundice.
Preventing premature birth is the best way to prevent jaundice in babies. However, if a baby is born prematurely, there are a number of things that can be done to help prevent jaundice, including:
- Providing the baby with breast milk or a special formula that is low in bilirubin
- Monitoring the baby's bilirubin levels
- Starting phototherapy early, if necessary
With proper treatment, most babies with jaundice can go on to live healthy lives.
Cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and coordination. It is caused by damage to the brain that occurs before birth, during birth, or shortly after birth. Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability in children.
Premature babies are at an increased risk of cerebral palsy because their brains are still developing and they are more vulnerable to injury. Cerebral palsy can also be caused by complications of prematurity, such as respiratory problems, jaundice, and infections.
The symptoms of cerebral palsy can vary widely, depending on the severity of the brain damage. Some common symptoms include:
- Difficulty with movement
- Muscle stiffness or weakness
- Poor coordination
- Speech problems
- Intellectual disability
- Seizures
There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are a number of treatments that can help to improve the symptoms and quality of life for people with the condition. These treatments may include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Medication
- Surgery
The prognosis for people with cerebral palsy varies depending on the severity of the condition. Some people with cerebral palsy may be able to live independently, while others may require lifelong care.
Preventing premature birth is the best way to prevent cerebral palsy. However, if a baby is born prematurely, there are a number of things that can be done to help reduce the risk of cerebral palsy, including:
- Providing the baby with the best possible medical care
- Monitoring the baby's development closely
- Starting early intervention services, if necessary
With proper care and support, many people with cerebral palsy can go on to live full and productive lives.