Thread by @WHO

Today is #WorldPrematurityDay.

Globally, more than 1 in 10 of all babies are born preterm - before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Babies #BornTooSoon deserve every chance to live, 💕 and thrive.

More: bit.ly/3CpTJDO

Complications relating to preterm births are now the leading cause of death for children under 5.

Most could be prevented with the right care before, during and after childbirth bit.ly/3CpTJDO

#BornTooSoon

Depending on where they are born, there remain significant disparities in a preterm baby’s chances of survival.

In high-income countries, most #BornTooSoon (at or after 28 weeks) will survive.
In poorer countries survival rates can be as low as 1 in 10 bit.ly/3CpTJDO

Most babies #BornTooSoon can be saved with cost-effective measures incl.:
💕 Essential care before, during & after childbirth
💕 Antenatal steroids
💕 Kangaroo mother care
💕 Provision of breastmilk
💕 Preventing & treating common infections & breathing difficulties

A healthy pregnancy reduces risks of preterm birth.
WHO recommends:
🤗 Quality & respectful antenatal care, inc. early ultrasound
🤗 Counselling on optimal nutrition
🤗 Preventing tobacco & substance use
🤗 Vaccination to reduce risks of flu and #COVID19

#BornTooSoon

Knowing the danger signs can reduce risks if your baby is #BornTooSoon.

If you’re less than 37 weeks pregnant and you have regular contractions, unusual back pain or lose water, seek immediate medical help bit.ly/3X2d8q4

#WorldPrematurityDay

If you experience preterm labour, treatments are now available to reduce risks for your baby incl.:
• antenatal steroids
• medications to delay delivery

More: bit.ly/3X8FZca

#WorldPrematurityDay #BornTooSoon

If a baby is #BornTooSoon or small, WHO recommends starting kangaroo mother care immediately after birth.
bit.ly/3X2d8q4