Preterm birth and low birth weight
Important parameters that help determine the gestational age and birth weight, development and growth of infants. When a baby weighs less than 2,500 grams at birth, this is called low birth weight.
| Birth weight | Level |
|---|---|
| <2500 grams | Low birth weight |
| <1500 grams | Very low birth weight |
| <1000 grams | Very low birth weight |
- Mundastujananam: 37 weeks of pregnancy are called premature baby before the birth of children. As the gestation period is incomplete, the organs do not develop and lead to low birth weight. About one-third of all low birth weight babies are born prematurely. Preterm infants are at increased risk for complications such as hyaline membrane disease (HMD), intraventricular hemorrhages (IVH), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and patent ductus arteriosus. (PDA), feeding problems, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and apnea of prematurity (AOP).
- Uterine growth limit (IUGR): Babies who complete the gestation period can also be born with low birth weight. The causes could be placenta, maternal health problems or baby health problems. One-third of babies born with low birth weight are due to uterine growth restriction.
Low birth weight diagnosis:
Ultrasound scanning is the most accurate method to determine growth. Ultrasound can also help identify uterine defects that are a major cause of IUGR (Intraturine Growth Restriction).
Low birth weight treatment
Appropriate treatment will be initiated depending on the underlying conditions.
For infants with very low birth weight (1500 gms) and very low birth weight (1000 gms), total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with intravenous proteins and lipids is maintained.
Breast milk, asepsis, kangaroo mother care (KMC) early onset helps to stay in the hospital less time and discharge faster.
Other medical conditions for the baby can also be resolved at once. For example, precise respiratory support can be provided using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or with other major ventilation modes. Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) and Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) screening attempt to identify vision and hearing problems with birth. Neurodevelopmental post-discharge follow-up is given to low birth weight infants.
Omni Giggles has an excellent neonatology team with the skills to solve all medical and surgical problems in neonates.