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Preterm Birth And Prom Testing: Long Term Impact On Baby

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Gauri Cmi


Preterm birth refers to any baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed. It is one of the leading causes of infant deaths. Prom testing or screening aims to identify women at risk of preterm birth. Early identification helps doctors monitor such pregnancies closely and take preventive measures to reduce preterm birth risks. This article discusses preterm birth trends, risks, impact and role of prom testing in addressing this serious health issue.

Understanding Preterm Birth Trends

Preterm Birth and Prom Testing birth rates have been steadily rising over the past few decades in many countries. In the United States alone, nearly 1 of every 10 infants is born preterm each year. This accounts for over 15 million preterm births annually worldwide. While medical advances have improved survival rates of preterm babies, those born early still face higher risks of lifelong health complications. Some key preterm birth trends show:

- Rates vary greatly between developed and developing nations with African countries reporting the highest preterm birth prevalence.

- Younger teenage mothers and older mothers over 35 years face a higher risk of preterm delivery.

- Multiple pregnancies from assisted reproductive technology also have elevated preterm birth risks.

- Lifestyle factors like smoking, substance abuse, stress increase one's chances of preterm labor.

Risk Factors For Early Delivery

A number of medical risk factors can increase the likelihood of preterm labor starting. Some common ones are:

- Previous preterm birth: Women who have previously delivered a baby prematurely are more likely to do so in future pregnancies as well.

- Uterine or cervical problems: Abnormalities of the uterus or cervix that weaken it over time elevate preterm delivery chances.

- Multiple pregnancies: Carrying more than one baby at once is a major risk factor due to the added stress on the mother's body.

- Medical conditions: Diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, infections during pregnancy may trigger early delivery.

- BMI issues: Underweight or obesity prior to pregnancy are linked to higher preterm birth risks.

Long Term Impact On Babies

Babies born preterm have unstable organ development which can continue affecting them long after birth. Some long term health issues witnessed in preterm infants include:

- Breathing problems: Respiratory distress is common in preterm babies needing support devices in NICUs. Chronic lung diseases may persist.

- Feeding difficulties: Coordinating sucking-swallowing takes longer to mature placing preemies at higher risk of feeding issues.

- Developmental delays: Preterm birth is a leading cause of cerebral palsy and other neurodevelopmental impairments affecting learning, behavior and mobility.

- Vision and hearing problems: Immature organs pose risks of eye disorders and permanent hearing loss in preterm infants.

- Metabolic conditions: Low birth weights are associated with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes later in life.

Role of Prom Testing in Prevention

Understanding Value of Prom Testing

While the exact causes of preterm birth are still not fully known in many cases, prom or progesterone screening aims to identify at-risk mothers. It measures the level of progesterone, a key hormone maintaining pregnancy, during the second trimester between 16 to 24 weeks. Low progesterone may signal higher risks.

Promoting Awareness and Monitoring

Women with low progesterone levels receive proactive care including progesterone vaginal suppositories to support the pregnancy. Regular check-ups track cervical length and any signs of early labor. Lifestyle advice on stress reduction, ample rest etc. are followed strictly. This close monitoring throughout pregnancy can significantly reduce preterm births.

Preterm birth continues posing immense health burdens with lifelong implications for infants. While medical care has advanced neonatal outcomes, prevention remains the key strategy. Prom testing is a simple, low-cost screening making early detection of at-risk pregnancies possible. Combined with targeted progesterone therapy and risk-tailored care, it promises to lower preterm delivery rates over time. With greater awareness and focus on safe pregnancies, more vulnerable babies can be afforded the chance of a full-term birth.

 

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