What is Premature Birth?
Premature birth is the completion of the pregnancy before the 37th week. While a normal pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, the baby is born in a shorter period in a premature birth. This situation can lead to the baby not completing its development and various health problems.
In medical literature, premature birth is divided into three groups:
- Very premature birth (before 28 weeks),
- Moderate premature birth (between 28-32 weeks),
- Late premature birth (between 32-37 weeks).
The causes of premature birth can include health problems experienced by the expectant mother, infections, and multiple pregnancy. For example, the risk of premature birth is high in twin or triplet pregnancies because the pressure on the uterus increases. In addition, smoking, malnutrition and high stress levels are also shown as risk factors.
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU provides detailed information on the prevention and management of premature birth, while emphasizing that this condition can be diagnosed early with regular check-ups during pregnancy. She states that special care and treatment methods should be applied especially for expectant mothers at risk of premature birth.
In premature birth, there may be vital risks due to the baby’s organs not fully developing. However, thanks to modern medical technologies, the chance of survival for premature babies is increasing day by day. At this point, Dr. Diler KOYUNCU states that the right approach to premature birth treatment is of critical importance.
At What Weeks Is It Considered Premature Labor?
Premature birth is a term used for births that occur before the 37th week of pregnancy. The gestation period is calculated as 40 weeks from the last menstrual period, and failure to complete this period means that the baby is born before completing its development.
Premature birth is classified according to its weeks:
- Extremely premature birth: Occurs before the 28th week of pregnancy.
- Moderately premature birth: Occurs between the 28th and 32nd weeks.
- Late premature birth: Occurs between the 32nd and 37th weeks.
This classification is important for evaluating the effects on the baby’s health status. For example, since organ development is not yet complete in a baby born before 28 weeks, serious problems may occur in vital functions such as respiratory, digestive and immune systems. However, babies born after the 34th week generally experience fewer complications and can recover quickly when care conditions are suitable.
Causes of premature birth include:
- Multiple pregnancy (twin or triplet pregnancy),
- Structural problems in the uterus or cervix,
- Infections experienced by the expectant mother,
- Smoking, alcohol or malnutrition,
- Intense stress or physical trauma.
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU states that the risk of premature birth can be detected with regular check-ups during pregnancy. Especially when early symptoms are noticed, medical interventions can be applied to extend the pregnancy as much as possible. During this process, it is critical for expectant mothers to adopt a healthy lifestyle and strictly adhere to their doctor’s recommendations.
Since not every premature birth carries the same risk, this situation needs to be evaluated with a professional approach. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU aims to protect the health of the mother and baby at the highest level by recommending personalized care protocols for pregnant women at risk of premature birth.
Can a 7-Month-Old Baby be Born Normally?
The 7th month of pregnancy covers the 28th to 31st weeks of pregnancy. Babies born during this period fall into the premature birth category and are defined as “moderately premature birth”. A 7-month-old baby can be born with a normal birth, but in this case, the health status of both the mother and the baby should be closely monitored.
Possibility of Normal Birth for 7-Month-Old Babies
Normal birth is also possible in the case of premature birth. However, the following factors are evaluated when deciding on the method of birth:
Baby’s condition: Lung development may not be complete in a 7-month-old baby. Therefore, intensive care support may be required during and after birth.
Maternal health: The mother’s risk of complications during birth is evaluated.
Method of birth: If the baby is too small or is not in an appropriate position, a cesarean section may be preferred.
Problems Encountered in 7-Month-Old Babies
Lung development: Respiratory problems are frequently seen in 7-month-old babies because the lungs are not yet fully developed. In this case, the baby may be provided with ventilator support after birth.
Immune system: These babies have low resistance to infections.
Body temperature control: Since fat tissue is not sufficiently developed, heat loss may occur.
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU’s Recommendations
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU emphasizes that it is possible for 7-month-old babies to be born through normal birth, but such births must be carried out by an expert team and in a fully equipped hospital environment. She states that applications such as steroid treatment can be recommended to expectant mothers at risk of premature birth to support the baby’s lung development.
In addition, with the support of the intensive care unit after birth, the survival chance of 7-month-old babies is quite high today. During this process, parental support also contributes significantly to the baby’s development. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU draws attention to the importance of raising awareness of families and establishing regular check-up programs during this critical process.
When is premature labor dangerous?
Premature birth is the condition of occurring before the 37th week of pregnancy, and not every premature birth is dangerous. However, in some cases, premature birth can pose serious health risks for the mother and the baby. Whether premature birth is dangerous or not depends on the week of birth, the baby’s developmental level, and the mother’s health status.
Situations in Which Premature Birth Is Dangerous
Insufficient Lung Development of the Baby: The biggest risk of premature birth is that the baby’s lungs are not fully developed. Especially in babies under 28 weeks, respiratory problems may occur because the lungs are not sufficiently developed. Although these babies have a lower chance of survival, they can be treated with modern medical technologies. However, babies born before the 28th week may experience serious respiratory problems and may remain in intensive care for a long time.
Underdevelopment of Other Organs of the Baby: In addition to the lungs, organs such as the kidneys, brain, and digestive system may not be fully developed in babies born prematurely. This can make it difficult for the baby to survive and develop healthily. For example, premature babies may experience feeding problems because their digestive systems are not fully functional.
Mental and Physical Developmental Problems in Babies: Mental and physical developmental problems are more common in babies under 32 weeks. Especially in babies born between 25-28 weeks, long-term health problems such as neurological disorders, blindness or hearing loss may occur.
Infection Risk: Since the immune system of premature babies is not yet fully developed, they are extremely vulnerable to infections. Infections caused by bacteria and viruses can spread rapidly in premature babies and have serious consequences.
Maternal Health and Premature Birth Risk: Premature birth can threaten not only the baby but also the mother’s health. During premature birth, the mother may encounter serious complications such as bleeding, infection and uterine rupture. In addition, there is a risk of premature birth recurring.
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU’s Approach: Dr. Diler KOYUNCU states that the danger of premature birth is largely related to the patient’s health history, pregnancy process and how she responds to medical interventions. It is emphasized that women at risk of premature birth should have regular check-ups throughout their pregnancies and be informed about risk factors.
In order to reduce the risk of premature birth, doctors can take preventive measures. These measures may include interventions such as medication to prevent uterine contractions, recommending bed rest for the mother, and steroid treatment for the baby’s development. In this way, the baby’s prenatal development can be supported.
In order to prevent premature birth, mothers-to-be are also advised to eat healthy, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and alcohol. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU states that with such measures, the risk of premature birth can be reduced and the health of the mother and baby can be protected.
Premature Birth and Dr. Diler KOYUNCU’s Recommendations
Premature births are births that occur before the 37th week of pregnancy and can often pose serious health risks for the mother and baby. Therefore, taking the right steps to prevent and manage premature birth is vital. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU offers many suggestions for women at risk of premature birth, developing personalized solutions to ensure that they have a healthy pregnancy and that the baby receives the best care after birth.
Regular Pregnancy Monitoring and Early Diagnosis
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU emphasizes the importance of early detection of the risk of premature birth. Regular check-ups throughout pregnancy and tests such as cervical length measurement can identify mothers at risk of premature birth. In particular, monitoring cervical shortness and uterine contractions can help predict premature birth. If such conditions are detected, premature birth can be prevented or at least a more controlled birth process can be planned.
Bed Rest and Avoiding Physical Loads
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends bed rest for women at risk of premature birth. It is important for the mother-to-be to avoid excessive physical loads and stressful situations to prevent uterine contractions. Physical load or stress can trigger contractions, which can lead to premature birth. Resting provides the mother with an important opportunity to relax and support the baby’s development.
Steroid Treatment
In mothers at risk of premature birth, Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends steroid treatment to accelerate the development of the baby’s lungs. Steroids help the baby’s lungs mature before birth, reducing the risk of postpartum respiratory problems. This treatment is frequently used in pregnancies between 24-34 weeks and can make a big difference for patients at risk of premature birth.
Drug Therapy and Contraction Control
The onset of contractions before the baby is ready for premature birth in the womb can trigger premature birth. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends tocolytic drug treatment to stop uterine contractions. These drugs can help prevent birth by relaxing the uterine muscles. Controlling contractions allows the baby more time to complete its development.
Cervical Stitching (Exhibition Stitching)
In some cases, premature opening of the cervix can lead to premature birth. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends performing a cervical stitching (cervical cerclage) in pregnant women with cervical insufficiency or premature opening. This procedure supports the cervix and allows time for the baby to continue developing before premature birth.
Good Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle
Another important factor that directly affects maternal health is nutrition and lifestyle. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends a healthy and balanced diet for mothers to reduce the risk of premature birth. Adequate vitamin and mineral intake is essential for the healthy growth of the baby. In addition, smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided, as well as excessive caffeine consumption.
Protection from Infections
Infections during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU emphasizes the importance of good hygiene habits to protect against infections. Urinary tract infections, cervical infections and genital infections in particular can trigger premature birth. Early detection of infections through regular check-ups can reduce the risk of premature birth.
Psychological Support and Stress Management
Stress is one of the factors that increases the risk of premature birth. Dr. Diler KOYUNCU recommends psychological support for expectant mothers. Being able to cope with stress during pregnancy is important for ensuring a healthy birth. Relaxing techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress.
Dr. Diler KOYUNCU states that premature birth can be managed with the right medical approaches and preventive measures. Regular monitoring of women at risk of premature birth during pregnancy, and with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to minimize the negative effects of premature birth. Therefore, it is of great importance for women at risk of premature birth to seek professional health services and receive the right guidance.