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Preterm Baby Care

Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation have special care and follow-up needs.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Preterm Baby Care?

Preterm birth accounts for about 10% of all live births and is a leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. It is classified by gestational age: late preterm (34-36+6 weeks), moderate preterm (32-33+6 weeks), early preterm (<32 weeks), and very early preterm (<28 weeks).

Major problems in preterm infants include respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), intraventricular hemorrhage, retinopathy, cerebral palsy, and hearing loss. Advances in intensive care technology have improved survival from 24 weeks of gestation onward.

Kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby), breast milk, early neurodevelopmental stimulation, and a family-centered approach are the cornerstones of preterm care.

Symptoms

Low birth weight (<2500 g)
Respiratory distress and grunting
Poor sucking and feeding difficulty
Tendency toward hypoglycemia and hypothermia
Jaundice (neonatal hyperbilirubinemia)
Apnea and bradycardia episodes

Risk Factors

History of previous preterm birth
Multiple pregnancy
Cervical insufficiency
Uterine anomalies
Infection (chorioamnionitis, UTI)
Maternal diseases (preeclampsia, diabetes)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • After discharge, in case of feeding difficulty or poor weight gain
  • If color change, apnea, or fever is noticed
  • For regular neurodevelopmental follow-up appointments
  • For the vaccination schedule (based on chronological age)

Treatment Methods

01
NICU care: respiratory support, thermal management, parenteral nutrition
02
Surfactant therapy: lifesaving in RDS
03
Breast milk: reduces NEC risk and strengthens immunity
04
Kangaroo care: for thermoregulation and maternal bonding
05
Neurodevelopmental follow-up: developmental tracking up to 2-3 years
06
RSV prophylaxis: palivizumab (according to gestational age and indication)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.