Premature birth, or preterm birth, occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation. Babies born prematurely often face various health challenges due to underdeveloped organs and systems. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide specialized care for premature newborns to help them overcome the unique complications associated with preterm birth. Our goal is to ensure that every premature infant receives the best possible care to promote healthy development, offering both immediate treatment and long-term support for families in Atlanta.
Common Complications of Premature Birth
Premature infants are more susceptible to health complications because they haven’t had enough time in the womb to fully develop. The earlier the baby is born, the higher the risk of health issues. Some of the most common complications faced by premature newborns include:
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
This condition is caused by underdeveloped lungs, which makes it difficult for the baby to breathe on their own.
Feeding difficulties
Premature babies may have trouble sucking and swallowing, leading to challenges in feeding and gaining weight.
Jaundice
A condition where the baby’s liver is not yet fully capable of processing bilirubin, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Infections
Premature infants have weaker immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections.
Apnea of prematurity
Temporary pauses in breathing due to the immaturity of the respiratory system.
These complications may vary depending on how early the baby is born. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 10 babies in the U.S. is born prematurely, and many require specialized care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Dr. Sells is fantastic! We have been with her since our baby since her release from the NICU! Dr. Sells is very knowledgeable and patient! She has helped our baby love her visits to the doctor, even requesting to go see “Dr. Sells” without a scheduled appointment. Thank you for the special gifts (books) at each scheduled doctor’s visit! Perfect touch!
Specialized Treatment for Premature Newborns
Premature infants often require immediate and intensive medical care to manage these complications. Our neonatologists at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine work closely with NICU teams to ensure that every preterm baby receives the necessary treatments to stabilize their condition and promote growth and development.
Common Treatments for Premature Babies Include:
Respiratory support
Babies with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) often need assistance breathing. Treatments may include supplemental oxygen, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or mechanical ventilation for more severe cases.
Feeding support
Premature infants may be fed through a tube until they are strong enough to suck and swallow effectively. Parenteral nutrition (intravenous feeding) may also be used to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.
Phototherapy
For babies with jaundice, phototherapy is often used to help break down excess bilirubin in the skin.
Infection control
Premature babies are carefully monitored for signs of infection and may receive antibiotics to prevent or treat infections.
Thermoregulation
Premature infants may have difficulty maintaining their body temperature. Special incubators and warmers are used to keep their temperature stable.
Our team provides continuous monitoring and care for premature newborns to ensure their health stabilizes and improves over time.
Long-Term Monitoring and Support
Caring for a premature baby doesn’t stop once they leave the NICU. Many premature infants need continued follow-up care to monitor their development, growth, and any lingering health concerns. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide long-term support for families as their premature baby transitions from hospital care to home life.
Long-Term Care Includes:
- Developmental screenings to ensure your child is meeting important milestones such as crawling, walking, and talking.
- Regular check-ups to monitor weight gain, lung function, and overall health.
- Specialist referrals if your child needs additional care for specific complications, such as vision or hearing issues.
Our neonatologists work closely with families to provide guidance on feeding, sleep, and other important aspects of caring for a premature baby.
Emotional Support for Families
Premature birth can be overwhelming for families, and we recognize that parents need emotional support as well as medical care for their baby. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide resources, counseling, and guidance to help parents navigate the challenges of caring for a premature infant. We believe that a strong partnership between families and healthcare providers is essential for the well-being of both the baby and the family.
Schedule an Appointment for Premature Infant Care in Atlanta
If your baby was born prematurely and requires specialized care, Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine offers expert neonatal services to support your family. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help your baby thrive. We are proud to provide comprehensive care for premature newborns in Atlanta.