The Importance of Regular Pediatric Check-Ups for Premature Babies

When a child is born prematurely, it can be cause for alarm, as babies should undergo a certain amount of development in the womb. At Pediatric Healthcare Associates, Dr. Mary Strength provides the caring premature infant care in Waxahachie, TX, that new parents need. These babies are more fragile than the typical newborn, but Dr. Strength and her team will monitor your little ones for proper development during ongoing check-ups.

What Are the Dangers of Premature Birth?

A normal healthy baby takes nine months or 37 weeks to gestate. Birth before this 37 weeks may come with various health challenges the earlier the baby is born. Breathing issues are often a concern due to underdeveloped lungs. Lung issues can create apnea, where the baby temporarily stops breathing, or respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Very early births may result in bleeding on the brain, known as intraventricular hemorrhage(IVH).  Other blood issues may include an open blood vessel in the heart known as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The baby may have lower levels of red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Babies are born with vulnerable immune systems, even more so with an early birth. That is why preemies often get infections. Yellow skin and eyes are a sign of jaundice from a buildup of bile in the blood from the liver.

Why Regular Pediatric Check-Ups for Premature Babies Matter

Premature infant care in Waxahachie, TX, is essential to helping these fragile preemies avoid health problems and develop as much as possible. Dr. Strength will check for developmental milestones, like the transition from cooing to babbling and from rolling over on the stomach to sitting up without assistance by six months. Some children experience learning problems later. If there are signs of developmental delays, your pediatrician can start early interventions.

Vaccinations are even more essential for these babies, since their immune systems are more compromised than typical newborns. From rotavirus to measles to polio to hepatitis, Dr. Strength can keep your baby on schedule for protection from infectious diseases.

These babies will often need extra nutrition. Your doctor can guide the mother on the best diet to fortify breast milk or special formulas so the baby can grow strong. At each visit, the doctor will check the baby’s vision, hearing, respiratory strength, heartbeat, weight, and length to monitor growth.

At Pediatric Healthcare Associates, Dr. Strength will care for your newborn child with the delicateness and care they need. She has provided premature infant care in Waxahachie, TX, to many babies who have grown into healthy children. To learn more and set up an appointment, call us at 972-937-1221 for more information.