Every year, thousands of babies are born prematurely around the world, and each one represents an early fight for life. Premature birth is characterized by arrival into the world before 37 weeks of gestation and requires extra care for the baby and his/her family.
Premature babies, especially those born before 34 weeks, require more complex hospital care, including oxygen therapy and, in many cases, assisted ventilation to help with breathing. “Today, fortunately, most babies born weighing less than one kilo have no after-effects. Even so, the initial risks can be serious,” says pediatric neonatologist Davi de Paula, professor of Medicine at Feevale University.
The importance of careful prenatal care
To avoid premature birth, De Paula emphasizes the need for rigorous prenatal care . He recommends that pregnant women attend at least seven prenatal appointments and highlights some factors that can trigger premature labor, such as infections, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and drug use. If the risk of premature birth is detected, the pregnant woman may need to be hospitalized and, in some cases, receive treatment with corticosteroids, which help mature the baby’s lungs before birth.
Premature baby care
The presence of parents is essential in neonatal intensive care units. In addition to the emotional support of both parents, the mother can contribute to feeding through breast milk, which, when necessary, is administered through a tube. “Nowadays, we increasingly understand the importance of affection and care in the physical and mental development of the baby,” observes De Paula, highlighting the effort to humanize neonatal units and create an environment that simulates, as much as possible, the mother’s womb.
Prematurity is one of the main causes of hospitalization of newborns , according to the doctor. He explains the importance of society understanding that, even with all the appropriate care, prematurity can happen, and this is not the parents’ fault. “The entire community has to be aware of the importance of this affection and care,” he emphasizes. In addition to medical advances, family involvement and emotional bonds are key elements in the recovery process of premature babies .
A new life, a new beginning
The neonatologist reports having seen the progress of many tiny babies and is proud to have seen the evolution of this area of medicine. “When prematurity occurs, it is a frightening moment for the family, but with the help of the multidisciplinary team, everything becomes easier,” he says. This team, which includes doctors, nurses, technicians and physiotherapists, works tirelessly to ensure the best chance of a healthy and safe start for these babies. Raising awareness of the needs of premature babies and supporting their families are fundamental steps to ensuring that these little warriors have the opportunity to grow and develop with health and dignity.
