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Late Pretem Birth - the need for prevention |
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Written by Administrator
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Monday, 22 March 2010 09:50 |
The March of Dimes has set a goal of reducing preterm birth. Preterm birth is associated with an increased many problems. The largest increase has been in the setting of late preterm birth (those occuring between 34-36 6/7 weeks). These births can be indicated of course but the increase over the last decade is probably attributable to non-indicated preterm delivery. Later preterm birth is associated with an increase in the risk of neonatal ICU admission, feeding problems, jaundice, etc.
More importantly, late preterm infants are more than 3 times as likely to develop cerebral palsy and are slightly more likely to have developmental delays than babies born full term. Another study found that adults who were born at 34 to 36 weeks gestation may be more likely than those born full-term to have mild disabilities and to earn lower long-term wages.
(from http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1157.asp#head8)
In Nevada there has been a 19% increase in late preterm birth from 1996-2006- see link.
http://www.marchofdimes.com/peristats/printer.aspx?dv=co®=32&stop=241&top=3&lev=4&obj=1&cmp=©=1
The importance of the above is not to stop all deliveries during these time periods, as some clearly need to occur for medical indications. However, there is a need for us as professionals to inform our patients on the risks of non-indicated delivery prior to 37 weeks. To inform them of the need to wait for delivery for the health of their infants. Overall, this goal will provide happier outcomes
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