The early arrival of a baby—before the 37th week—can bring a wave of complications and emotional strain. Despite progress in medical interventions, many premature births are still avoidable with timely care and awareness.

What leads to early delivery?

Dr. Shilpa Aroskar, Paediatric and Neonatal Consultant at Kokilaben Hospital, notes that structural issues in the uterus, placental problems like previa, or past surgeries such as classical C-sections can raise preterm risks. Complications like low/high amniotic fluid, fetal growth restrictions, or multiple pregnancies also often result in early births.

Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or infections—if unmanaged—can trigger premature labor. Prior experiences of PPROM, stillbirth, or untreated infections like chorioamnionitis are warning signs of repeat risk.

Prevention begins before pregnancy

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, ensuring adequate nutrition, and spacing pregnancies wisely help lower risks. Dr. Aroskar stresses the value of preconception visits for managing chronic illnesses and starting essential supplements.

Addictions, infections, or diseases like diabetes must be controlled before conception to reduce complications later.

The social side of the crisis

According to Dr. Rashmi Bhardwaj from Marengo Asia Hospitals, stress, poverty, and poor healthcare access remain invisible drivers. Chronic stress in disadvantaged women often triggers early labor, and a lack of antenatal visits prevents timely diagnosis of problems like anemia or hypertension.

The way forward

Improved prenatal care, better education, and community support are essential. Strengthening screening, promoting maternal health awareness, and extending postnatal care—including exclusive breastfeeding—can protect both mother and child.

To truly reduce preterm births, India must combine medical vigilance with social outreach.