World Prematurity Day is marked on November 17th annually with the aim of increasing understanding of premature births and the issues faced by prematurely born babies and their families around the globe. Approximately 15 million babies are delivered prematurely every year, making up about one-tenth of all newborns worldwide. Premature birth occurs when a baby is born too early, before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. Babies born prematurely are at risk of severe complications that can be life-threatening and result in long-term health issues.

1. World prematurity day
World Prematurity Day is marked on November 17th annually with the aim of increasing
understanding of premature births and the issues faced by prematurely born babies and their
families around the globe. Approximately 15 million babies are delivered prematurely every
year, making up about one-tenth of all newborns worldwide. Premature birth occurs when a
baby is born too early, before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. Babies born prematurely are at
risk of severe complications that can be life-threatening and result in long-term health issues.
Health Challenges in Premature babies
Babies born prematurely are at risk of experiencing enduring consequences. Specifically, these
may include conditions such as cerebral palsy, cognitive developmental delays, visual and
hearing problems, as well as compromised overall health and growth.
Babies that are late preterm (born between 34 and 36 weeks) might experience lasting problems
such as behavioural and socioemotional disorders as well as learning difficulties.
History
When Silke Mader became pregnant with twins in 1997, it all began. However, one died within a
week after the preterm delivery at 25 weeks gestation, while the other is currently a healthy
adolescent growing up. Nevertheless, Silke Mader learned from this difficult experience that the
treatment of preterm neonates has gaps based on geography. Consequently, the European
Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) was created with her assistance in 2008,
and it launched World Prematurity Day.
Objectives:
Raising public awareness of premature births and preterm babies
Educating people on the significance of regular pregnancy check-ups to prevent preterm delivery
Educating expectant mothers to manage their blood sugar and blood pressure levels
Premature birth is more likely to occur in some cases of health issues. These include:
Issues with the uterus, cervix, or placenta
Infections, especially those in the amniotic fluid and lower genital area
Persistent health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes
Physical injuries or harm to the body
Signs or symptoms that might indicate you are going into preterm labour
A difference in your vaginal discharge (it may become watery, mucus-like, or contain blood), or
you may have more discharge than usual.

2. Feeling pressure in your pelvis or lower abdomen, as if your baby is pushing down
Experiencing a constant, mild backache
Suffering from belly cramps, possibly with or without diarrhea
Having regular or frequent contractions that cause your belly to tighten like a fist. These
contractions might be either painful or not painful.
Your water breaks
Steps to lower your risk of preterm labor and premature birth:
Prepare your body for pregnancy by ensuring it's in good health. Get into a healthy weight range
prior to getting pregnant.
Seek treatment for medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, or
thyroid issues.
Protect yourself from infections by getting vaccines, washing your hands regularly, and avoiding
undercooked meat, fish, or eggs.
Use safe sex practices to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
Eat well and stay active every day. This can reduce stress and help you maintain a healthy weight
while pregnant.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and harmful drugs.
Conclusion
If you notice any signs of preterm labor, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can
provide treatment to either stop it or enhance your baby's well-being before delivery. Discuss
with your provider to decide the best treatment for you.