 Blood problems, 

including low red blood cell counts (anemia), yellow color to the skin from breaking down old red blood cells (jaundice), or low blood sugar
(hypoglycemia)

 Kidney problems

 Digestive problems, including trouble feeding and poor digestion

 Nervous system problems, including bleeding in the brain or seizures

 Infections

Premature babies can have long-term health problems, as well. Generally, the more premature the baby, the more serious and long-lasting are the health problems.

What can I do to prevent preterm labor?

More babies are surviving even though they are born early and are very small. It is best to prevent preterm labor if possible.

Prenatal care is important in finding problems and lifestyle factors that can increase the risks for preterm labor and birth. Here are ways to help prevent preterm labor:

 If you smoke, get help to stop smoking before you become pregnant.

 Find out if you are at risk for preterm labor.

 Learn the symptoms of preterm labor.

If you are at high risk for preterm birth, your provider may give you the hormone progesterone. It helps reduce the risk for preterm birth if you have had a preterm
birth in the past.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

During regular prenatal visits, you and your healthcare provider will talk about symptoms of preterm labor and normal labor. If you have any symptoms of preterm
labor, including contractions, cramps, back pain, or leaking of fluid from your vagina, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Key points about preterm labor

 Preterm labor is labor that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

 Symptoms of preterm labor include contractions, cramps, back pain, or leaking of fluid from the vagina.

 Preterm labor may result in preterm birth. Babies born too early are at risk for many serious health problems.

 If you have any symptoms of preterm labor, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Next steps
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

 Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.

 Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

 Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.

 At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider
gives you.

 Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.

 Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.

 Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.

 Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.

 If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

 Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.

Related Topics

 Neurological Exam for Children

 Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Related Links

 Johnson Center for Pregnancy and Newborn Services

 Neonatology Care
 Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit