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A baby is born too early if it is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, which is less than the normal 40 weeks of a full-term pregnancy. Prematurity is characterised as late, moderate, very, or extremely preterm, depending on how early the infant is born. Babies born earlier are at higher risk for health problems. Preterm babies sometimes have trouble breathing, their body temperature changes, they have trouble feeding, and they are more likely to have infections in the first few days and weeks of life because their organs are still growing.

Some short-term problems that can happen are respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, low blood sugar, and the requirement for close monitoring in a newborn intensive care unit. Over time, some children who are born too early may have trouble growing and learning, seeing or hearing, or getting cerebral palsy or chronic lung illness. But many preterm babies do well with early intervention, constant follow-up, and help from family and doctors.

Multiple pregnancies, certain infections, maternal medical disorders, smoking, and a previous preterm delivery are all risk factors for premature birth. However, often, no definite explanation is established. To keep both mother and baby safe, it is important to get preventive prenatal care and go to the hospital right away if you have symptoms of premature labour.