A normal pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks, but when a woman gives birth before 37 weeks, the baby is considered premature. Giving birth prematurely can be a stressful experience for any new parent. You worry about if your child is okay, you don’t know what difficulties might lie ahead for them, and you might be the only person you know going through this experience. Luckily, we know more now about how to help premature babies than ever before. These facts can help any preemie and their parents move forward with confidence.

You Aren't Alone

Having a child who is born too early can feel very isolating and can cause lots of anxiety. While it feels like other moms are taking their babies home and starting their lives as parents, you may feel alone. However, you're not. One in ten babies is born too early in the United States, so you are a part of a sizable group of parents dealing with the same complications.

There are many things that can cause a premature birth. Certain conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can cause a woman to give birth early. Infections, a problem with the uterus, or a cervix that is weak are also blamed for causing premature births. Alcohol and drug use during pregnancy can play a role, and they are highly discouraged.

Although premature birth is still the leading cause of death in babies , hospitals are getting much better at helping children who come into the world too soon. Neonatal intensive care units (NICU) offer round-the-clock care for preemies and help create a womb-like environment so they can thrive. Signs of a premature baby may be low birth weight, problems breathing or other short and long-term health problems that NICU nurses and doctors are trained to treat.

Prepare for the New Normal

Whatever you envisioned life as a parent to be like, prepare for a major shift. Premature birth tends to throw life off the rails for a while, and it's important to let go of past expectations so that you can embrace the new normal. The new normal may include a baby who stays in the hospital for weeks, delayed developmental progress and a calendar full of doctor appointments.

Having a premature baby is not an easy experience to go through, and finding other parents who understand is important. Find support groups online or in person and ask questions when you have them. This will help you let go of your original timeline and expectations and know that there are a whole lot of parents out there learning to do the same.

Potential Health Risks

The last few weeks in the womb are important, so a baby who is born prematurely can experience an array of health problems. Some are short term, such as low birth weight or jaundice. Even feeding problems usually work out eventually, though it may be years before preemies can eat completely on their own. Other health problems are long term, including hearing problems, growth issues, and learning disabilities. Each child is unique, and there is no way to know for sure how significant the issues from a premature birth will be.

Having a premature baby is not easy, but there is support for you and your baby as you wade through this challenging experience. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other people in support groups or to get therapy for any anxiety this experience may cause you. You will be much happier and better equipped mentally and emotionally to take care of your new baby.