Definition
A premature birth is defined as a baby that is born before the completed 37th week of pregnancy. Usually the babies of a premature birth weigh less than 1500g. Preterm birth is associated with a number of risk factors for the baby.
In principle, there are a number of causes for preterm birth, but not all patients have this. Some give birth prematurely without any of the following identifiable causes: All these characteristics of a possible preterm birth can also be interpreted as the first signs of a possible preterm birth. In the event of premature labor or amniotic sac, the mother must be alert and consult a doctor.
- Premature contractions
- Premature amniotic sac
- Multiple pregnancy
- Detachment of the placenta (placenta)
- Disease of the mother
Survival Channels
The chance of survival of premature babies with a birth weight below 1500g has improved significantly. Male premature babies and multiple births have a lower chance of survival than female premature babies. The fact that premature babies today have a much better prognosis than in the past is mainly due to the improved intensive medical care of the babies and the better management of risk pregnancies.
During pregnancy, the fetus is supplied with oxygen via the placenta. During this time there is also a connection between the left and right heart (foramen ovale), which means that there are not yet two heart chambers. These are also not needed at this time because the lungs are still without function.
The Foramen ovale (connection between the right and left ventricle) This closes within a few days (weeks) after birth. Respiratory movements of the fetus are also observed during pregnancy. However, the lung is filled with fluid.
When the newborn takes its first breath, the pressure in the chest is probably so high that the fluid diffuses into the lymphatic and blood vessels. In order for his lungs to be able to unfold fully, a certain substance, the so-called surfactant, must be present in the lungs. In addition, the lungs are now supplied with blood, which increases the pressure and filling with blood in the left part of the heart.
Thus the previously open Foramen ovale in the heart wall now closes. At 40/min, the breathing rate of a newborn baby is considerably higher than that of an adult. The heart also beats faster (120/min).
After birth, the infant must regulate its own body temperature. Since the newborn has little subcutaneous fatty tissue, it generates its energy through its so-called brown fatty tissue. Newborns are assessed according to a scheme, the so-called Apgar scheme.
After 1, 5 and 10 minutes the assessment is made. A maximum of 10 points can be achieved. If the Apgar value is below 5, the survival of the child is critical.
