Some preterm babies are delivered vaginally. Preterm labor, delivery, and care of the baby require care in a hospital with special facilities. University of Michigan's Women's Hospital and the Holden Neonatal Intensive Care Unit can provide this specialized care. Your Preterm Baby Many preterm babies are tiny and fragile. Depending on how early the baby is born, he or she may need special medical care in order to breathe, eat, and keep warm.
Preterm babies can have physical and mental disabilities that can be long-term.
Babies born before 32 weeks of pregnancy are most at risk. Preterm babies may not be ready to live on their own. Preterm babies are often kept in an incubator to keep them warm. They are cared for by specially trained nurses and other health care providers. Today, with special NICU care, even very early, tiny babies have a much better chance of survival than in the past.