Preterm baby
A preterm baby, also called a premature baby, is one born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. Doctors classify prematurity by gestational age: late preterm is 34 to 36 weeks, moderately preterm is 32 to 33 weeks, very preterm is 28 to 31 weeks, and extremely preterm is under 28 weeks. The earlier a baby is born, the greater the need for specialized care, as organs such as the lungs, brain, gut, and immune system are still developing. Preterm babies may need NICU or Special Care Nursery support for breathing, feeding, warmth, and infection prevention, and parents should expect a longer hospital stay.
What This Means for You
Understanding Preterm baby is an important part of your before 37 weeks journey. In your baby's first year, you will hear this term from your paediatrician and in parenting communities. Knowing what it means helps you respond quickly and confidently.
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Singapore has a preterm birth rate of around 8 to 10 percent. If you are at risk of preterm labour, your obstetrician at KKH or NUH may administer steroid injections to speed up fetal lung maturity and discuss magnesium sulphate for brain protection in very early cases.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/birth/preterm-babies
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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