Premature babies, babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, often experience various health challenges, one of which is low birth weight (LBW) . Babies with LBW weigh less than 2,500 grams at birth, which can increase the risk of short-term and long-term health problems. Proper and immediate treatment is essential to support their growth and development.
What are Premature and Low Birth Weight (LBW) Babies?
A baby is considered premature if it is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Conversely, a baby born after 37 weeks but weighing less than 2,500 grams is considered a LBW baby. This condition often occurs due to various factors, such as accelerated birth or growth disorders in the womb.
Premature and low birth weight babies are susceptible to various health problems, including respiratory disorders, digestive problems, inability to regulate body temperature, and infections. Therefore, they require special care in hospitals with adequate neonatal facilities.
Health Challenges in Premature and Low Birth Weight Babies
Premature babies with LBW have bodies that are more susceptible to health problems because their organs are not fully developed. Some health problems that are often experienced by premature babies and those with LBW include:
- Respiratory Problems : Premature babies often have problems breathing because their lungs are not fully developed. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a common condition in premature babies that requires special treatment, such as the use of a ventilator or the administration of surfactant to help the lungs function.
- Thermoregulation Deficiency : LBW babies often have difficulty regulating their body temperature, due to their low body fat content. Therefore, they require a warm, controlled environment to prevent hypothermia.
- Infections : Premature babies' immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections.
- Nutritional Disorders : Babies with LBW may have difficulty breastfeeding or obtaining sufficient nutritional intake to support their growth.
- Long-Term Problems : Some premature and low birth weight babies may develop developmental or cognitive problems over time. Therefore, continued monitoring is essential.
Steps for handling premature babies with LBW:
- Intensive Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Premature and low birth weight babies are usually cared for in the NICU , where they can receive intensive medical attention. In the NICU, babies will be closely monitored, especially to ensure adequate respiratory function, body temperature, and nutritional intake.
- Ventilation and Surfactant Administration to Assist Breathing
Premature babies often experience respiratory problems because their lungs are not yet well developed. Dr. Mas Wisnuwardhana, Sp.A (Fellow Neonatology) together with other medical teams will decide whether the baby needs mechanical ventilation or surfactant to help their lungs work better and prevent respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) .
- Nutrition and Nutrition Monitoring
Babies with LBW need more careful and controlled nutrition. Dr. Mas Wisnuwardhana, Sp.A (Fellow Neonatology) will design a nutritional plan to support the growth and development of the baby, either through exclusive breastfeeding or special formula milk that contains more calories and essential nutrients.
- Optimal Body Temperature Control
Because premature babies with LBW have difficulty regulating their body temperature, they will be placed in an incubator or use other aids to keep their body temperature stable. This also helps reduce the risk of hypothermia, which can worsen their health condition.
- Infection Prevention and Medication Administration
Premature babies' immune systems are not fully developed, making them particularly vulnerable to infection. In this case, a neonatologist will ensure that the baby receives the proper care to prevent infection, including antibiotics if necessary. The baby will also be monitored regularly for signs of infection.
- Follow-up and Rehabilitation
After the initial phase of treatment, the doctor will conduct routine monitoring of the development of premature and LBW babies. This includes physical examinations and neurological development to ensure there are no long-term disorders. Rehabilitation with physical therapy and monitoring of the baby's growth and development will be carried out gradually.
The Importance of Early Detection and Appropriate Treatment
Prompt and appropriate treatment for premature babies with low birth weight is crucial to prevent long-term complications. Early detection and intensive monitoring in hospitals with complete neonatal facilities are very helpful in providing the best care for these babies who need special attention.
Article written by dr. Mas Wishnuwardhana Widjanarko, Sp.A, M.Si.Med (Fellow Neonatology) (Pediatrician Specialist, EMC Pekayon Hospital).