Preterm birth

Preterm Birth

Lockdowns linked with drop in preterm births

The number of preterm births around the world dropped three to four per cent in the first four months of Covid-19 lockdowns, research shows. The global pandemic and the subsequent lockdown measures implemented by governments have had unexpected effects on various aspects of society, including healthcare. A study conducted during the early months of the pandemic revealed a significant decline in preterm births, which are births that occur before 37 weeks of gestation.

Preterm birth is a major concern as it can lead to various health complications for both the baby and the mother. However, the decrease in preterm births during the lockdown period suggests that certain factors associated with the pandemic may have played a role in preventing early deliveries. While the exact reasons behind this decline are still being studied, experts speculate that reduced stress levels, improved air quality, and increased rest due to restricted movement may have contributed to the decrease in preterm births.

Understanding the factors that influence preterm births is crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent them. The unexpected findings during the Covid-19 lockdowns highlight the importance of further research in this area. By identifying the underlying causes of preterm births and implementing measures to address them, we can strive towards reducing the prevalence of preterm births and improving the health outcomes for both mothers and babies.