Premature birth is a worry of just about every woman who finds out she is pregnant. Even though pregnancy is supposed to be a magical time in your life, it can easily take a tragic turn if your child is born prematurely. So, what causes premature birth? Let’s take a look at this serious birth injury, so you have a better understanding.
A birth is considered premature when the baby is born prior to the 37th week of pregnancy. Normal pregnancies last roughly 40 weeks. The most common risk factors that can lead to premature birth include the following:
- The mother is younger than 17
- The mother is older than 35
- Using drugs during pregnancy
- Smoking during pregnancy
- Poor health condition before and during pregnancy
- An abnormal uterus
- Amniotic membrane infections
- Urinary tract infections
- A weak cervix that opens early
- Alcohol use during pregnancy
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
Premature birth might also happen if your doctor fails to monitor your health or the health of your baby during the pregnancy. If the doctor does not recognize health risks that could lead to premature birth, and your baby is born prematurely, you might have the basis for a medical malpractice case against the doctor.
It can be challenging to experience the premature birth of your child. However, you might be eligible for compensation if the birth was due to the negligence of your doctor. Be sure you document every appointment you attend throughout your pregnancy in order to pinpoint exactly what went wrong.