Another reflection of prematurity is the birth weight. The expected birth weight at term is 2.5 Kg or more. Premature babies are usually less than 2.5 Kg in weight, that is Low birth weight (LBW). The more premature the baby, the smaller it is. However, not all babies that are LBW are premature. Some time babies born at term may weigh less than 2.5 Kgs. Therefore, gestational age is a more accurate measure of prematurity than birth weight.


Problems associated with Premature babies

The smaller the baby or the earlier the birth the more the associated problems.

Lungs : Respiratory distress syndrome is a common problem. This means that the baby’s lungs are immature due to lack of a substance called surfactant. Oxygen therapy is usually needed. If breathing is very poor, then a ventilator may be needed to help the baby to breathe and to maintain oxygen levels in the blood.

Heart : Premature babies may also have a problem related to the heart. One of the problems is patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) which is a communication between the pulmonary artery and aorta. This may require treatment.

Brain : Very small babies, especially those weighing less than 1 Kg are prone to bleeding into the brain, resulting in an intra-ventricular haemorrhage (IVH).

Feeding problems : The baby may need to be fed through a tube until he is strong enough to suck. Breast milk can also be fed through the tube.

Vision and hearing : Crossed eyes (strabismus) are more common in premature babies than in full term babies. Often, this problem goes away on its own as the baby grows up. Some babies have an eye disease called retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a scarring of the retina due to exposure of the baby to excessive amounts of oxygen. ROP usually occurs in babies who are born very early, at 32 weeks of pregnancy or earlier. An eye doctor needs to be consulted to monitor any eye changes and allow any intervention. Premature babies are more likely to have hearing problems as well. All premature babies need regular growth and development checks with a very close watch for any developmental delay. Vision and hearing must be repeatedly assessed.