Definition of Preterm Birth
A normal pregnancy lasts between 37 and 42 weeks. When labor begins or delivery occurs before 37 completed weeks of gestation—whether due to uterine contractions, premature rupture of membranes, or other causes—it is defined as preterm birth (premature birth). It is one of the most common clinical complications of pregnancy and can lead to serious maternal and neonatal outcomes.
How Common Is It?
Globally, 1 in every 10 babies is born preterm. In Turkey, the rate is approximately 10–12%. However, in women with identified risk factors, the likelihood of preterm birth is significantly higher. A history of preterm birth, multiple pregnancy, uterine abnormalities, or cervical insufficiency can greatly increase this risk.
Why Is It So Important?
Preterm birth accounts for about 80% of deaths that occur during pregnancy and the first 28 days of life (the neonatal period). Because premature babies are born before their organs are fully developed, they are at risk for several serious health complications:
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): Lungs may be underdeveloped.
- Intraventricular Hemorrhage (Brain Bleeding): Especially common in babies born before 32 weeks.
- Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP): Incomplete retinal vascular development can lead to blindness.
- Cognitive and Motor Developmental Delays
- Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): A severe intestinal condition that can be life-threatening.
Thanks to modern neonatal intensive care, babies born as early as 26 weeks now have improved survival rates. However, for infants weighing under 750 grams, both survival and long-term quality of life remain challenging. These children may experience learning difficulties, visual-motor coordination disorders, and social adaptation problems later in life.
Our Clinic’s Distinct Approach: Supportive and Preventive Care
At our clinic, every expectant mother with a preterm birth risk is managed through a personalized, multidisciplinary care plan. Going beyond standard prenatal follow-up, our approach includes:
- Comprehensive analysis of all risk factors
- Early preventive interventions from the start of pregnancy (nutrition optimization, circulatory support, stress management)
- Regular monitoring of the body’s physiological readiness for labor
- Early intervention protocols when necessary (e.g., cervical length monitoring, progesterone therapy, cervical cerclage)
Our goal is not only to anticipate preterm birth, but to prevent it entirely—ensuring the healthiest possible continuation of pregnancy for both mother and baby.
Conclusion
Preterm birth is a potential complication in any pregnancy, yet with effective monitoring and evidence-based preventive strategies, it can often be avoided or successfully managed.
Through our clinic’s personalized and proactive pregnancy monitoring protocols, we aim to protect maternal and neonatal health at the highest possible standard of care.
