25 Nov National Prematurity Awareness Month

November is National Prematurity Awareness Month, bringing attention to the health of mothers and babies affected by preterm birth, with a goal of reducing the number of premature babies born.  Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It’s the second leading cause of infant death before age one.

How can preterm birth be prevented?

• Prenatal Provider Visits: It’s very important to work with a medical provider who can identify any problems or needs as early as possible.
• Stop smoking or using tobacco products: Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth-weight.
• Enroll in a program to help: First District offers a number of programs to help ensure your baby is born healthy and on time:
  • Optimal Pregnancy Outcome Program (OPOP)
  • WIC Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children
  • Baby & Me Tobacco Free program for pregnant women

Any parent of a newborn can enroll in the High Priority Infant (HPI) program – whether for a premature infant, a baby with special needs, or just for extra help and support.

Did you know?  Donating blood is a way to help premature babies, as some may require special medical attention, including blood transfusions. O- blood is universal and can be safely transfused to people of all blood types.