What Are the Risks to a Preterm Baby?

Being born too early can pose multiple risks to a child. Possible complications for babies born before 32 to 34 weeks include the following.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)—a breathing problem

Apnea—an interruption in breathing that may be accompanied by a slow heart rate

Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH)—bleeding in the brain

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)—a heart problem

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)—an intestinal problem which leads to feeding difficulties, abdominal swelling, and other complications

Anemia—the condition of not having enough red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body’s tissues

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)—an abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye which can lead to bleeding and formation of scars

Jaundice—immature livers can’t remove a waste product called bilirubin, causing a yellowish pigmentation of the skin, which can be a sign of a potentially serious liver disorder

Chronic Lung Disease—fluid in the lungs, scarring, and lung damage may develop, leading to ongoing problems

Infections—can develop because immature immune systems aren’t able to fight off bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that may cause infection