What Does It Mean When Your Baby Is Premature?

As you move through the phases of pregnancy, your body and emotions undergo a wide range of changes. Excitement, anxiety, fear, and an overwhelming sense of the responsibilities of parenthood are all normal. However, if you discover that your little one is going to arrive early, all of these emotions can become heightened. 

It’s important to understand that most premature babies thrive. Thanks to advancements in medical training and technology, premature birth isn’t as challenging as just a few generations ago. When you partner with our Little Angels Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) team, you receive the guidance and support you need. 

What does the term “premature baby” mean?

Most pregnancies last around 40 weeks. Babies born before the 37th week are considered premature. The earlier the birth, the higher the risk of complications. 

Premature babies don’t have the time to fully develop inside the womb, so their organs and systems may not function as efficiently as those in full-term babies. 

Common causes of premature births

Various circumstances can lead to a premature birth, including:

• Carrying twins or other multiples
• History of previous premature birth
• Multiple miscarriages or abortions
• Getting pregnant shortly after giving birth to another child
• Injury or trauma
• Stressful life events
• Getting pregnant while still a teen or after the age of 35

Very often, there is no apparent cause of a premature birth. 

What happens after having a premature baby?

We assess your health and the health of your newborn in the hours and days after you give birth. Caring for premature babies can be complex, so this assessment period is critical. 

Your baby may need to spend extensive time in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit, and the highly trained practitioners explain what to expect regarding developmental milestones and when you can bring your baby home. 

Once you arrive home, your preemie will likely need continuing care, which could include feeding support, breathing treatments, and care for surgical sites. Some little ones need special medical equipment that must be maintained and calibrated. 

Physical therapy is also part of the process for many premature babies after they come home from the hospital. Our Little Angels PPEC team has the skills and experience to keep your little one moving toward developmental advancement. We even offer rides to and from the care facility if needed. 

It can be challenging to manage the stress and anxiety that comes with being the parents of a preemie. With the help of Little Angels Pediatric Extended Care, you can rest assured your family is in the best of hands. 

When you’re ready to explore these services in greater detail, call Little Angels PPEC in Longwood or Orlando, Florida, or book online to schedule a consultation with our team.