Preterm Birth
Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, or more than three weeks early. Babies that are born too early can have health problems such as brain damage, asthma, and problems with vision. Preterm birth is also the leading cause of infant death in Mississippi. The greatest risk for preterm birth is having had a prior preterm birth. Women who have already had a premature baby need special attention when they are pregnant.
Preventing Preterm Birth with 17P
Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, or more than three weeks before their due date. Babies that are born too early can suffer from serious breathing problems, infections, poor brain development and vision problems. Preterm birth is also the leading cause of infant death in Mississippi. One of the greatest risk factors for preterm birth is having had a prior preterm birth. Women who have already had a premature baby need special attention when they are pregnant.
Talk to your health care provider about 17P if you have already had a preterm birth of a single baby, if you are pregnant now, and if you are pregnant with only one baby. For more details, see our questions and answers, or the brochures below.
