Health Tip: Are You at Risk for Preterm Birth?

Common risk factors

(HealthDay News) -- Preterm birth -- birth that occurs before 37 weeks' gestation -- potentially can lead to a lifetime of complications for the infant.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mentions these risk factors for preterm birth:

  • Having a "multiples" pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc).
  • Having a history of premature birth.
  • Being of African-American heritage.
  • Having problems with the cervix or uterus.
  • Having a chronic health problem or a certain type of infection.
  • Drinking alcohol, using drugs or smoking cigarettes during pregnancy.

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