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Preterm birth is defined as babies born before 37 weeks in pregnancy. Babies born too soon account for three-quarters of perinatal deaths and most of the low birth weight infants (infants born under 2500 grams or 5½ pounds). These children are at risk of developing serious short and long-term health problems, and are estimated to cost the health care system $600,000 over each lifetime.
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The cause of most preterm births is unknown.
Recognized risk factors include:
- genital tract infection
- periodontal infection
- cigarette smoking
- prior preterm birth and
- other obstetrical problems
Stress may also affect the risk of preterm birth. Research is required to clarify all of these factors.
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The goal of preterm birth prevention is to reach pregnant women and their partners and encourage them to recognize the signs and symptoms of preterm labour, then to react appropriately by calling their care providers and going to the hospital for assessment. Consistent Region-wide guidelines for response by care providers and hospitals have been developed to provide quicker access to appropriate treatment, levels of care and referrals to specialized hospitals in Hamilton or London.
Posters and information booklets have been distributed to hospitals, physicians, midwives and ultrasound labs throughout the region.
For more information, please call: 519-883-2267.
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