An average pregnancy lasts 38 weeks. If a baby is delivered in less than 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is classified as preterm birth. If an infant is delivered before 26 weeks, he or she will likely have serious permanent neurologic injuries and will likely be considered non-viable, meaning the baby will be considered not capable of living or developing. A delivery in less than 32 weeks will present a serious risk to the infant, as the lungs haven't fully matured yet; lungs mature between the 32nd and 34th week. Because the infant's lungs haven't fully matured before the 32nd week, the baby will likely suffer from hypoxia or lack of an adequate supply of oxygen to the brain. A baby born before the 34th week will likely require ventilation assistance in the neonatal intensive care unit or NICU for the first few weeks. NICU provides premature or ill infants with specialized medical care. Expected mothers who anticipate a premature delivery should research hospitals with a NICU well in advance of the delivery date.
The longer a premature baby can stay inside the mother before delivery, the lower the risk of brain injury and birth defects. If the infant is delivered after the 34th week, he or she will usually have a low risk of permanent brain injuries. Steroids can also be given to the expected mother of a premature baby to help lower the risk of brain injuries and lung development problems for the infant.
Premature infants run a greater risk of various medical problems including, breathing problems, brain hemorrhage, gastrointestinal tract, organ problems, and nervous system problems. The premature infant will be at a much higher risk for infections, maintaining a proper body temperature, and may experience problems with feeding.
Additional problems that a premature infant may confront, after birth, include cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, hearing and vision problems, developmental delays, and other medical issues. It is vital if an expected mother is anticipating a premature delivery, that the doctor pays close attention throughout the pregnancy, delivery, and post-birth stages.
If you or a family member has experienced a premature delivery or birth injury as a result of doctor negligence or hospital negligence, you may have a case for medical malpractice. You should consult with an experienced
birth injury lawyer, such as Dr. Bruce Fagel. Dr. Fagel is a leading medical malpractice lawyer and a licensed physician, so if a doctor or hospital was responsible for the birth injury of your child, Dr. Fagel will be able to prove the causation and get you compensation to support your child for a lifetime of medical care.