Frequently Asked Questions

Prematurity occurs when the birth occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy.. Premature babies (Preemies) may experience health problems requiring a longer stay in the hospital, typically in a newborn intensive care unit (NICU). Finding and treating problems early can help the baby develop; however, the problems may not show up for several years after birth.

Yes.  A premature baby can experience 

long term intellect and disability of development including, but not limited to physical development, capacity to learn, communication, care, and even the ability to get along with others.

• Cerebral palsy (CP). affects the parts brain controlling muscles causing movement, posture, and balance problems..
• Behavior Problems. Premature babies may develop attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a condition making it difficult to control behavior.
• Mental Health. Premature babies may experience anxiety or depression later in life. 
• Neurological Disorders.  Conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves all through the body.

• Asthma. Affects the airways, capable of causing breathing problems.
•  Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD). A lung disease that may develop in premature babies, especially babies using a breathing machine. Swelling and scarring in the lungs may occur, lung infections like pneumonia more likely, and causing long-term injury.

• Dental Problems. Delayed tooth growth, changes in color, crooked teeth out of place teeth in later life.
• Hearing Loss.
• Infections.
• Problems with the Intestines. May be caused by Necrotizing Entercolitis (NEC), a common but very serious disease affecting a newborn baby’s intestines. May have been caused by feeding premature baby a defective cow-milk based formula, producing ongoing intestinal problems, like scarring or blockage in the intestine. Surgery may be needed to treat.
• Vision problems, Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP). Occurs when a baby’s retinas are not developing in the weeks after birth. 

• Physician 
• NICU Certified/Qualified Registered Nurse
• Your Pastor, Priest, Rabbi, or Spiritual Mentor
• Your Health Insurance Company.
• Mental Health Professional 
• Moms of Preemie Baby Support Groups
• Products Liability Qualified Legal Counsel