17/11/2025
Theme: Give preterm babies a strong start for a brighter future
Brief Definition:
Preterm birth is delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Annually, about 15 million babies are born preterm, mostly in India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Common Infections Linked to Preterm Birth include;
Urinary tract Infections (UTIs)
Bacterial vaginitis (BV)
HIV
Malaria
Chorioamnionitis
Cytomegalovirus
Risk Factors for Preterm Birth:
Previous Preterm birth
Chronic illness
Malnutrition
Maternal Infections
Multiple pregnancies.
The challenges faced by new parents include;
Long hospital stays, emotional stress, feeding difficulties, financial strain, uncertainty, mental health struggles are some of the challenges they face.
Helping New/Breastfeeding Mothers Cope:
This can be done via emotional support, lactation guidance, good nutrition, adequate rest, and a safe, judgment-free space for mothers to share openly.
Facts About Preterm Birth:
1. Preterm birth happens before 37 weeks.
2. It’s a top cause of neonatal deaths.
3. Affects breathing and feeding in babies.
4. Can lead to long-term developmental issues.
5. Triggered by infections or inflammation.
6. Multiple pregnancies raise the risk.
7. Maternal conditions like hypertension, diabetes matter.
8. Good prenatal care lowers the risk.
Prevention of Preterm Births:
Preterm birth can be prevented through regular prenatal care, infection treatment, balanced nutrition, avoiding alcohol, managing chronic diseases, reducing stress, and proper birth spacing.
A Call for Action:
Let’s speak up today about premature births. Our voices can create real change.
