Preterm birth challenges discussed
The Port Shepstone Regional Hospital said although some premature births cannot be prevented, there are measures to help reduce the risk.
Mothers of premature babies are reminded of the importance of kangaroo mother care.
The method involves infants being carried, usually by the mother, with skin-to-skin contact.
Assistant nursing manager for paediatrics at Port Shepstone Regional Hospital, Matron Thokozile Nhlumayo, stressed this method on World Prematurity Day on November 17.
The day aimed to raise awareness about premature births and emphasised the importance of addressing the challenges faced by babies who are born prematurely, as well as their families.
Nhlumayo emphasised the critical role of breastfeeding in providing optimal nutrition and strengthening the immune system of premature babies.
She said although some premature births cannot be prevented, there were measures to help reduce the risk. These include prioritising prenatal care by attending regular check-ups, undergoing risk assessments, and seeking timely interventions if complications arise.
Nhlumayo also emphasised the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress.
She said avoiding smoking and substance abuse promotes a healthier pregnancy.
Mothers in the hospital’s neonatal ICU Department were excited about the programme and the gifts they received.
Sinazo Xulu said the gift was not just a present but a reminder that they were not alone on this journey.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation said a birth is considered preterm if a live baby is born before the completion of 37 weeks of pregnancy. The sub-categories of preterm birth based on gestational age are extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks), very preterm (28 to less than 32 weeks), and moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks).
“Babies may be born preterm because of spontaneous preterm labour or because there is a medical indication to plan an induction of labour or caesarean birth early,” said the organisation, adding that preventing deaths and complications from preterm birth starts with a healthy pregnancy.
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