Selected problems of prematurity and prematurely born child care

The evolution of perinatology and the progress of advanced methods of prenatal diagnosis have contributed to the rise of frequency of birth and survival of newborns with very low birth weight, born before 32 weeks of pregnancy. A three-tier perinatology care system in Poland, an increasingly outstanding knowledge of neonatologists, and newer and more advanced equipment for critical care therapy, all provide growingly safer conditions for the life and development of prematurely born children. Prematurity is not only a problem of the preterm baby, but poses a challenge for the family, notably the mother, who must face the challenges of care of the preterm baby.  In this article, selected problems of prematurity and care of a preterm baby are presented. The most common causes of preterm birth incidence are reported. The mother’s situation after a preterm birth is defined. Based on the current literature, the profile of preterm babies and the EBM (Evidence-Based Medicine) paradigm, the rules for treatment and care for a preterm baby are presented.