By Admin 
Why Preterm Births Are Rising: Premature delivery, i.e. birth before 37 weeks, has become a major health concern in India. There have been improvements in medical facilities, but the number of premature births is continuously increasing. The rate of preterm birth in the world ranges between 4 percent to 15 percent, while in India it often ranges from 10 percent to 15 percent. Due to the large population and lack of equal health facilities everywhere, every year about 25 to 30 lakh children are born prematurely in the country, which is the highest in the world.
Why are premature births increasing?
Doctors say that there is not just one reason for premature birth. Many factors together increase the risk, such as mother’s age, nutrition, diseases, stress and gap between pregnancies. Dr. Deepa Singh of Janani Care Hospital, Raipur says that the risk can start even before conception. Two trends are growing in India. Pregnancy at very young age and pregnancy after 35 years. In both the situations there is more trouble. Apart from this, short gap between pregnancies also puts additional burden on the body and may lead to premature labor.
Mother’s nutrition is the biggest reason for premature delivery. The risk increases significantly in women who have anemia, low BMI, or vitamin deficiency, or who do not undergo regular pregnancy check-ups. If tests are not done, many problems are not caught in time, such as infection, high BP, sugar, thyroid or sudden weight gain. Many times infection causes premature labor, but due to shyness or lack of information, women ignore it. Apart from this, diseases like diabetes, obesity, thyroid and high BP are also increasing among young women and further increase the risk.
Necessary steps to stop
Premature birth cannot be prevented every time, but it can be reduced to a great extent with timely care. It starts from the girl’s adolescence. Information about proper nutrition, vaccination and reproductive health is very important. It is also beneficial to get tested before pregnancy, cure anemia, control thyroid and treat infections. Regular checkups are necessary during pregnancy so that BP, sugar, baby’s growth and condition of the placenta can be monitored. It is very important to include iron, folic acid, calcium, protein and omega-3 in the diet. Light exercise, prenatal yoga, proper sleep and adequate water manage both body health and stress.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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