Vasupradha and her husband Venkat have declared that they are in “no rush” to meet the touted deadline.

Health experts also recommend against opting for preterm deliveries which are fraught with risks.

Preterm births in the seventh, eighth, or ninth months pose significant risks for both mothers and babies. Dr Shobha Gupta, fertility specialist and medical director at Mother’s Lap IVF Centre in New Delhi, emphasises that “early births can lead to various complications that require vigilant care and management”.

The risk of very preterm birth, which occurs at less than 32 weeks of gestation – way before the full pregnancy mark of 40 weeks — is associated with many challenging outcomes for pregnant women and their babies. In fact, experts noted that preterm births carry the highest risk of infant complications.

Risks for babies

According to Dr Gupta, preterm delivery often results in underdeveloped organs in the baby, particularly the lungs, which can cause respiratory distress syndrome. “Other risks include infections, feeding difficulties and long-term neurodevelopmental challenges. The earlier the birth, the higher the likelihood of these complications,” she says

Long-term issues can include delayed development growth and vision or hearing problems, added Dr Rajashri Tayshete Bhasale, consultant gynaecologist and laparoscopic surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road in Thane.

Trump’s citizenship order has been termed unconstitutional (Photo: AP)

Complications for mother

Mothers, too, face health concerns. According to Dr Gupta, they may experience postpartum complications, increased risk of infections and emotional stress. “Preterm labour is often accompanied by a higher risk of complications during and after delivery, emphasising the need for proper prenatal care,” says Dr Gupta.

Encouraging natural birth processes when possible is important, said Dr Gupta. She also stressed the role of awareness among patients, noting, “Informing expectant mothers about the signs of preterm labour and the benefits of prenatal care empowers them to make informed decisions.”

Caesarean sections or C-sections, frequently performed in such cases, come with their own risks. Dr Gupta cautions, “Multiple C-sections can increase the risk of uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies, and recovery is often more prolonged compared to natural births.”

Dr Bhasale noted that premature delivery can heighten the risk of severe complications such as infection or postpartum haemorrhage. “In this case, if a C-section is done to deliver the baby then it can further lead to longer recovery times and scarring. The chances of experiencing difficulties, like uterine rupture, in future pregnancies are also common after preterm birth,” she adds.

Preterm births in the seventh, eighth, or ninth months pose significant risks (Photo: Freepik)

Dr Gupta advises regular prenatal check-ups and a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. She also recommends focusing on maternal nutrition and stress management, as these are crucial in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

“Education, proactive healthcare and early intervention are key to minimising the risks associated with preterm births and Caesarean deliveries. A healthy and informed mother can give her baby the best possible start in life,” she says.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.