Definitions

Preterm birth


Overview

A pregnancy normally lasts about 40 weeks. Some risk factors for a preterm birth include having a previous preterm birth and being pregnant with multiples.

Symptoms

Complications associated with a preterm birth include immature lungs, difficulty regulating body temperature, poor feeding, and slow weight gain.

Treatments

Preterm babies may need longer or more intense nursery care, medications, and sometimes surgery.