A baby is considered prematurely born if it arrives before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. This is earlier than the typical 40-week full-term period, and such babies may face health challenges due to underdeveloped organs.

Premature babies fall into categories based on their gestational age: late preterm (34-36 weeks), moderately preterm (32-34 weeks), very preterm (28-32 weeks), and extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks). Most premature births happen in the late preterm stage.

Depending on how early they were born, premature babies may need help breathing, feeding, and maintaining their body temperature. This care often occurs in specialized units like the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where healthcare providers have the expertise to support these tiny patients.

Several factors can lead to premature birth, including health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, infections, pregnancy complications, or having multiple babies at once.

While there's no surefire way to prevent all premature births, certain steps can help lower the risk. These include avoiding harmful substances, eating a healthy diet, managing chronic health conditions, reducing stress, and getting regular prenatal care. Progesterone supplements and cervical cerclage are treatments that may help in some cases.

Signs include contractions every 10 minutes or more often, a change in vaginal discharge, feeling pressure in your pelvis, a low, dull backache, and cramps that feel like menstrual cramps. If you notice these signs, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Management depends on the health of both the mother and the baby. Treatment may involve medications to help the baby's organs mature and to delay birth, giving the baby as much time as possible to develop.

Yes, premature babies might face challenges like learning difficulties, vision and hearing problems, and other health issues as they grow. However, many premature babies catch up with their full-term peers over time, and advances in medical care continue to improve outcomes.