World Prematurity Day is November 17th

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My first pregnancy was about as perfect as it could be. I felt like a million bucks from the day we found out we were expecting. Healthy mom, healthy baby, and great reports at regular checkups meant a perfect labor and delivery too, right? Everything was assumed to play out peacefully just as every new mom desires.

If you know me, you know I don’t do surprises well. Especially a surprise due date! God had different plans when I went into early labor at 28 weeks.

Even though our NICU days are ever fresh in my mind, my sweet preemie is now 3 1/2 and life is good. But our story is miraculous compared to a million other babies born too soon.

November 17 is World Prematurity Day when we focus everyone’s attention on the global problem of premature birth.

world prematurity day logo

Global Quick Facts

  • 15 million babies are born too soon each year
  • Premature birth kills 1 baby every 30 seconds
  • More children die as a result of premature birth than malaria, AIDS, or diarrhea
  • Where you are born makes a big difference in your chances of surviving premature birth
  • More than 75% of deaths can be prevented even without intensive care

world prematurity day image from webThe March of Dimes joins with parent groups and organizations in countries around the world to raise awareness about premature birth and how it can be prevented. Our campaign is winning the battle against premature birth, but the U.S. still has the highest preterm birth rate of any developed country.

Keys to Prevention

  • Raise Awareness
  • Educate women and girls
  • Educate front-line workers
  • Equip clinics
  • Fund research

Learn More & Connect with March of Dimes

You can learn more about World Prematurity Day on Facebook, and the World Health Organization‘s website.

march of dimes logoWe’re grateful for the efforts of the March of Dimes as they work together for stronger, healthy babies. Check out our Iowa Chapter’s website, and follow the March of Dimes on Twitter @marchofdimes.

You can help make a difference by raising funds, donating your talents or joining a local event to make a positive difference in the health of babies and families in neighborhoods like yours. Learn how you can help and get involved today. Simply raising awareness and educating others about prematurity is a simple but powerful way to help.

peekaboo ICU photo

My Plea from One Mom to Another

If you’re planning for or currently expecting, give your baby the best start in life with the healthiest pre-conception care and pregnancy possible. Take time to learn the signs of preterm labor and avoid thinking “premature birth could never happen to me.” While there are pregnancy behaviors that can certainly increase the risk of premature birth like smoking, alcohol and drugs, the majority of the moms I know that have been surprised with preemies had completely healthy and safe pregnancies. We have so many amazing organizations and resources in our communities, and I encourage you to utilize them!

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