Premature Definition: When is a baby premature
Navigating the journey of having a premature baby can bring a mix of emotions and challenges. At CPBF, we understand these unique experiences and are here to offer support, resources, and a community that understands what you're going through. Our community is a place where you can find comfort and guidance during this significant time. Welcome to our CPBF community—we're here for you every step of the way.
Premature Definition: When is a Baby Premature
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What is RSV?Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a virus that causes cold and flu-like illness. For most healthy adults, RSV might feel like a cold. But RSV in babies and young children can be more serious.
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How common is RSV in babies?RSV is very common in babies and children. Almost all babies and children will have had an RSV infection by the time they are 2. RSV is most common in the fall and winter months.
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How do babies get RSV?The RSV virus spreads through droplets produced by coughs and sneezes. The most common way we get sick from RSV is by touching our nose, eyes and mouth with germs on our hands. RSV can live on surfaces for many hours. Premature babies are especially at risk of RSV because they have trouble fighting infections.
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Can I prevent my baby from getting RSV?Most babies and young children will get RSV sometime during the first two years of life. It is important to protect all babies, especially premature babies, from RSV as best we can during their first winter. Here are some ways you can help prevent your baby from getting RSV: Always wash your hands with soap and water before you touch your baby. Wash your hands after you blow your nose, sneeze, or cough. Do not smoke or let others smoke around your baby or in your home. Keep your baby away from anyone who is sick. If you are sick, do not kiss your baby. Keep your baby away from crowded places such as daycare centers, shopping malls, and large family gatherings. Ask your healthcare provider if your baby should get RSV prevention medicine
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How sick can my baby get from RSV?RSV will cause a bad cold for most babies. Some babies will get very sick from RSV. Babies born very prematurely, with breathing problems, certain heart problems or other medical conditions, are at the highest risk of getting very sick. RSV can cause pneumonia and bronchiolitis, serious lung and airway complications. If this happens, most babies need to be admitted to the hospital, and some need oxygen or breathing help.
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What are the signs and symptoms of RSV in babies?Some babies with RSV will only have cold symptoms like a runny nose. Other symptoms of RSV include: Fever Cough Problems with breathing (fast breathing or working hard to breathe) Whistling or wheezing noise when breathing Trouble feeding
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What should I do if my baby gets sick with a cold?Always call your baby's healthcare provider if your baby seems sick, is not eating well, is irritable, and has a runny nose If your baby has a fever or a cough, go to the hospital If your baby looks blue, has difficulty breathing, or stops breathing, call 911
Rate of premature births highest in 50 years
Preterm infants are at an increased risk of illness, hospitalization, and death, with risks generally increasing with decreasing gestational age. In Canada, the rate of premature births (occurring at less than 37 weeks of gestation) has increased by over a percentage point over the past 30 years, from 7.1% in 1993 to 8.3% in 2023. The rate in 2023 was higher than in any of the previous 50 years.
The proportion of births at less than 37 weeks of gestation, 1974 to 2023
Source(s): Canadian Vital Statistics: Birth Database, 2023 (3231).
Older mothers are at higher risk of preterm birth
The increase in the rate of premature births could be related to the higher proportion of older mothers, as risk of a premature birth increases as the age of the mother increases. In 2023, 26.5% of mothers were aged 35 years and older, compared to 10.7% in 1993.
Preterm birth rates in 2023 were higher among older women (9.0% of births among mothers aged 35 to 39 years and 11.9% of births among mothers aged 40 and older) compared to younger women (7.7% of births among mothers aged 25 to 29 years and 7.8% of births among mothers aged 30 to 34 years).
Most premature births (63.4%) occurred from 35 to 36 weeks of gestation in 2023, but 1,609 babies were born extremely premature, at less than 28 weeks.
Information courtesy of The Daily — Births and stillbirths, 2023
What adults born prematurely have to say: Preemie Voices Project
Experience the journeys of individuals born prematurely in this video and book by Dr. Saroj Saigal, an esteemed and award-winning neonatologist from McMaster University. Featuring narratives from adults who were among the earliest to receive care in the newborn intensive care unit at McMaster University Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario, this work delves into their lives. Born weighing less than two pounds, three ounces, these individuals share their unique challenges and triumphs, offering inspiration and hope to others.
Canadian Resources for Families with Premature Babies
Canadian Premature Babies Foundation (CPBF): Offers support, resources, and information to parents of prematurely born children.
Family Integrated Care: FICare programs, implemented in many Canadian NICUs, empower parents to take an active role in their baby’s care. The program provides education, emotional support, and engagement for families with babies in the NICU.
Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada: Provides accommodations near hospitals for families with children in the NICU, including preemies. Their services allow families to stay close to their babies during extended hospital stays.
Our Kids Health Preemie Hub: A new platform offering translated, evidence-based information to
support preemie families from 10 equity-deserving communities.
This information aims to provide a broad understanding of premature births, their implications, and resources available in Canada to support families. Please speak to your health care providers for more specific information.
If you are navigating the journey of having a premature baby, we want you to know that you're not alone. We understand the challenges and emotions that come with this experience, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Our community is built on compassion, understanding, and shared experiences. Whether you need resources, guidance, or just a listening ear, we are here for you. Together, we can provide the care and support your little one needs to thrive.
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