Why there has been an increase in preterm delivery? According to world health organization every year, around 15 million babies are born preterm, and preterm birth is a leading cause of mortality among children below 5 years of age. Of late there has been an increase in preterm deliveries. In fact, we receive around 20-30 cases every month. Preterm births not only cause an emotional pain to the family but also financial depletion. Life style changes like unhealthy food habits, excessive exposure to junk food, fast food, carbonated drinks, substance abuse as in alcohol, smoking and drugs are some of the reasons for the increase in preterm births.
Infections, twins/multiple pregnancy, excessive amniotic fluid, bleeding in the first and second trimester, low BMI and poor maternal weight gain during pregnancy also can lead to preterm delivery. Factors like anxiety/ depression, domestic violence, cervical insufficiency and genetics also affects pregnancy.
Some of the health conditions that preterm babies are known to suffer from are acute respiratory distress, gastrointestinal, immunologic, central nervous system, hearing, vision, behavioural disturbances along with chances of delayed milestones. They also can suffer from issues such as internal bleeding in the brain.
Preventing preterm delivery will include antenatal care, cervical encirclage (if required), nutritional intervention, bed rest, hydration, home uterine activity monitoring and usage of antibiotics if required. Regular antenatal care is also important to avoid the risk of preterm delivery.
Dr. Lavanya Kiran,
Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Bengaluru
