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A newborn below 2500gram is considered a low birth weight baby. About 20 million such babies are born annually across the globe. Most of them are healthy even after being tiny. They might not need temperature-controlled beds, special feeding and constant monitoring at the NICU. But many are quite likely to suffer from lower IQ, adult-onset chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes and stunted growth, according to an article by the UNICEF. They can also have trouble eating, combating infections and gaining sufficient weight. Trouble staying warm along with a bleeding brain are also common.
Being extra vigilant can keep the baby safe. But it is crucial to know the causes behind this condition. It will help you take the necessary precautions. Taking proper care is also vital to avoid long-term serious health conditions. Read on for a detailed guide.
Causes of Low Birth Weight
There are several reasons why a baby could be underweight. The main one is preterm birth. In India, 3.6 million infants are premature among the 27 million born annually. A normal baby is ready to come out at 40 weeks (full-term). This is when they are fully developed. But a child born before 37 weeks has less time to gain weight in the mother’s womb. This is why it is weak and might have major complications at birth and later.
Fetal or intrauterine growth restriction (IU is another reason for low birth weight. It occurs when the baby is unable to grow well inside the uterus. This could be because the mother’s stature is smaller than usual. Birth defects, genetic factors and placenta complications also contribute to the condition. Gestational diabetes, overuse of alcohol, poor prenatal nutrition, consuming medicines for blood clots and underweight mothers are other significant causes. It is marked by a weight that is under 10 percentiles for their gestational age before birth.
Preeclampsia, multiple births and infections like chickenpox or rubella can also lead to low weight. Studies found that females babies are more likely to be born underweight. Doctors at the best women’s and children’s hospital can take care to ensure a healthy life ahead.
How to Prevent Low Birth Weight?
Prenatal care is possibly the best way to combat this condition. Here’s a look at what you can do to avoid preterm birth and other pre-delivery complications.
- Follow a healthy diet. Include loads of full-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables, whole grain, proteins and fibres. Stay hydrated to produce more amniotic fluid, blood circulation, carry nutrients and produce more tissues.
- Avoid drug abuse and cut down on smoking and alcohol.
- Don’t skip prenatal visits to the doctor to ensure a smooth pregnancy.
Advanced medical science and technology at the best women’s and children’s hospital have made the survival of the smallest baby possible. Sick and premature babies are kept under constant care till they are stable. But mothers must take precautions to reduce the chances of low birth weight. Subsequently, the child is less likely to suffer from vision problems, asthma or lack of fine motor skills.
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