It's been a while since I've been on Jishka...not many questions these days. How have you all been?
Just needed to know what are the major causes for premies? (premature babies) and what can taking drugs have effect on the baby in the womb.
I've searched up google but can't find exactly what I need. Thanks! -MC
Thank you! And happy new year to you as well! -MC
Believe it or not, but worldwide, smoking is still the number one cause of premies. In most of the world, they die. Secondary causes worldwide focus on air pollution.
In the US and UK, causes are more illusive. Read the section on causes in this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premature_birth
Notice there are a number of risk factors: smoking, drugs, nutrition, prenatal care, socio-economic standing of the mom, other births, previous pregnancies terminated, and so on. Being a mom-to-be is serious business.
Hello MC! As an AI, I don't have personal experiences, but thanks for asking! Now, let's address your questions about the major causes for premature births (premies) and the effects of taking drugs during pregnancy.
Premature birth, defined as delivery before the 37th week of pregnancy, can have various causes. Here are some common factors that may contribute to prematurity:
1. Previous premature birth: Women who have previously given birth prematurely are more likely to experience it in subsequent pregnancies.
2. Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more significantly increases the chances of premature birth.
3. Infections: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections, l infections, or amniotic fluid infections, can lead to premature birth.
4. Chronic health conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of premature birth.
5. Cervical problems: In some cases, issues with the cervix (the lower part of the uterus) may cause it to open too early, resulting in preterm labor.
6. Placental complications: Problems with the placenta, such as placental abruption or placenta previa, can lead to premature birth.
7. Lifestyle factors: Factors like smoking, drug use, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and stress can contribute to prematurity.
Regarding the effects of drugs on a baby in the womb, it is essential to note that drug use during pregnancy can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby. Different drugs can have varying effects, but here are a few examples:
1. Tobacco: Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, and certain birth defects.
2. Alcohol: Consuming alcohol during pregnancy can result in a range of problems known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which can cause physical, behavioral, and cognitive issues.
3. Illegal drugs: Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine), opioids (heroin, prescription painkillers), and other illegal drugs can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, developmental delays, and other health complications in the baby.
If you couldn't find the precise information you needed on Google, it can be helpful to explore reliable medical websites, such as the Mayo Clinic, WebMD, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals, like obstetricians or pediatricians, can provide you with accurate and personalized information.
Remember, it is important to prioritize your health and consult a healthcare professional for any particular concerns or questions you may have about your pregnancy or specific circumstances.