Premature birth is defined as a baby born before 37 weeks gestation. According to the March of Dimes, one in eight babies born in the United States are born prematurely. There can be long term effects for those babies born prematurely.
Childhood Mortality
Premature babies born at 22 to 27 weeks gestation are more vulnerable to childhood mortality, according to a study by Dr. Geeta Swamy, an assistant professor of obstetrics. Generally, a preemie child is five to seven times more likely to die during childhood than a child born full term.
Disabilities
Disabilities that last a lifetime are often seen in premature babies. These include cerebral palsy and mental retardation, according to neonatologist Dr. Neil Marlow of the University of Nottingham in England.
Growth Issues
Extremely premature infants, those weighing less than 1,500 grams when born, may have long term growth issues as an effect of being born premature. They generally tend to be much smaller than their peers and have a difficult time catching up to them.
Reproduction Issues
Infants born prematurely may have reproduction issues. The chances of these infants not being able to have children in the future range from about 65 to 75 percent.
Speech and Language
Speech and language problems are often a side effect of being premature. These problems can last well into the school years and can lead to learning difficulties as well.
Tags: babies born, born prematurely, effect being, long term, weeks gestation