Overview
Many things can cause a baby to be born early. Some early births are planned, such as with twins or triplets. But in most cases, a birth that happens weeks before the due date is a surprise. Whatever the reason, your doctor and medical team will work hard for your baby's health. If you know you will give birth early, then you, your partner, and your doctor can prepare for a preterm birth.
Your baby may be delivered through a cut, called an incision, in your belly. This surgery is called a caesarean delivery, or a C-section. The surgery will make it hard for you to move around for a while.
A childbirth (obstetric) team and a new baby (neonatal) team will be there for your baby's birth. The neonatal team will bring special equipment with them, including a bed with an overhead heater. The obstetric team will take care of you while the neonatal team takes care of your baby.
Your baby may need special care for some time. The doctors and nurses in the hospital nursery or the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can help a preterm baby get stronger. Your baby may have trouble feeding. The hospital staff can show you how to get your milk to your baby.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter W689 in the search box to learn more about "Preterm Birth: Care Instructions".