Preterm Birth

Preterm birth is the birth of an infant before 37 weeks of pregnancy. In 2014, preterm birth affected about 1 of every 10 infants born in the United States. Preterm birth is the greatest contributor to infant death, with most preterm-related deaths occurring among babies who were born very preterm (before 32 weeks). Preterm birth is also a leading cause of long-term neurological disabilities in children.

A developing baby goes through important growth during the final weeks and months of pregnancy. Many organ systems, including the brain, lungs, and liver need the final weeks of pregnancy to fully develop. Read Your Baby Grows Throughout Your Entire Pregnancy[PDF-312KB]. There is a higher risk of serious disability or death the earlier the baby is born. Some problems that a baby born too early may face include—

Breathing problems
Feeding difficulties
Cerebral palsy
Developmental delay
Vision problems
Hearing impairment
Preterm births also may cause emotional and economic burdens for families. Learn more about preterm birth.