What defines a premature baby?

A premature baby is defined as one who is born before 37 weeks of gestation. The classification of prematurity is important in pediatrics because it has significant implications for the health and development of the infant. Babies born before 37 weeks are at a higher risk for various complications, including respiratory distress syndrome, feeding difficulties, and increased susceptibility to infections.

The World Health Organization and various health organizations categorize gestational age into several groups of prematurity:

• Late preterm (born between 34 to 36 weeks)

• Moderate to late preterm (born between 32 to 33 weeks)

• Very preterm (born before 32 weeks)

By contrast, a baby born at 37 weeks gestation or later is considered full term. Understanding this classification helps clinicians to assess the risks and required care for premature infants, allowing for the provision of appropriate interventions and support.

Defining prematurity accurately is crucial for medical management and parental counseling because these infants may face various challenges that require specialized care and monitoring after birth.