Babies grow best inside!

By Julie Tresco for the Times Herald Record

A full term pregnancy should last 40 weeks, but half a million babies are born prematurely each year. A baby born before 37 weeks gestation is considered premature. Being born too soon, the baby is not fully developed and is at risk for several complications including; respiratory distress, bleeding in the brain, inflammation of the intestines, blindness, infections, anemia, heart problems, apnea, and even death. Babies born before 32 weeks are at the greatest risk for severe complications. These babies will spend weeks to months in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) at a cost of at least $3,000.00 a day and will face lifelong health problems including cerebral palsy, mental retardation, blindness, and chronic lung problems.

Pre-term labor, labor beginning before the 37th week, can occur during any pregnancy, even a normal, healthy one. Certain factors put a woman at a greater risk for going into pre-term labor, such as carrying twins, uterine or cervical abnormalities, or a previous pre-term labor. On-going research into prematurity has also discovered outside factors that may lead to pre-term labor resulting in a premature birth, including:

• Late or no prenatal care
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Use of alcohol or drugs
• Stress
• Lack of support
• Domestic violence, including, physical, sexual or emotional abuse
• Long working hours standing on your feet

Some medical conditions that also put a woman at greater risk for pre-term labor include:

• Urinary tract or vaginal infections and sexually transmitted diseases
• Diabetes
• Periodontal disease- infection of the gums
• High blood pressure
• Underweight or obese
• Having had a short time between pregnancies

Be aware of the warning signs of preterm labor:

• Contractions 10 minutes or less apart
• A change in vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pressure
• Low, dull backache
• Period-like cramps
• Abdominal cramps

Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the above signs. You will be told to stop what you were doing when the signs began, rest for 1 hour, drink 2-3 glasses of water, and then may be told to go to the hospital.

If you are pregnant, give your baby a healthy start and reduce your risk for pre-term labor:

• Quit smoking- Great Start Quitline for Pregnant Women 1-866-66-START
• Do not drink alcohol or use drugs
• Reduce stress
• Avoid lifting heavy objects
• Take care of your teeth- brush twice a day, floss, and see your dentist for regular cleanings
• Most important of all- see a doctor as soon as you think you are pregnant.

Need insurance? Call MISN at 1-800-453-4666 to see if you qualify for free or low cost health insurance

Dads can help make sure their baby is not born too soon by:

• Taking mom to prenatal appointments
• Help mom out with daily tasks
• Encourage mom not to smoke or drink alcohol
• Do not smoke around mom, or quit smoking- NYS Smokers' Quitline 1-866-NY-QUITS

Remember, baby grows best inside

For More Information on FREE or LOW COST Health Insurance, Prenatal Care or Breastfeeding Support Call 1-800-453-4666.