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Premature infant

Pregnancy normally lasts about 40 weeks. A baby born 3 or more weeks early is premature.

When a baby is born too early, he or she may have health problems. Any premature baby can have medical problems. But those who are born before 32 weeks are more likely to have serious problems.

Babies who are premature may not be able to eat, breathe, or stay warm on their own. Their bodies need more time to fully form. After they outgrow the problems caused by being born too soon, most babies can safely go home from the hospital.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 25, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.