What causes babies to be born prematurely?
Why babies are born prematurely is still largely a mystery. Despite extensive research, new methods of care and treatments and improved health conditions in western countries, the rate of babies being born preterm (before 37 weeks) has remained fairly constant over the last few decades, usually at around 7 to 8 %. In recent years, the use of vitamins A and C, supplements or changing a woman’s diet to eat fish once a week have shown promising results in reducing the likelihood of having a premature baby. While ‘preventing’ preterm birth is proving to be elusive, we do know that certain health situations and lifestyle factors can contribute to babies being born prematurely. We also know that there are some things that do not affect the likelihood of preterm birth.
