What causes premature birth in children?

The causes of premature birth in children include maternal factors, placental factors, and inducing factors.

1. Maternal Factors

If a woman has congenital uterine malformations, uterine fibroids, or other conditions, or develops viral hepatitis, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, or other illnesses during pregnancy, these may lead to premature birth. Additionally, significant emotional fluctuations, engagement in heavy physical labor, or severe malnutrition during pregnancy may also increase the risk of preterm delivery.

2. Placental Factors

Conditions such as placenta previa, placental abruption, polyhydramnios (excessive amniotic fluid), or oligohydramnios (insufficient amniotic fluid) during pregnancy may result in preterm birth. Moreover, fetal abnormalities or abnormal fetal positions can also increase the likelihood of premature delivery.

3. Inducing Factors

If a pregnant woman has unhealthy lifestyle habits—such as long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, staying up late, or drug use—or experiences abdominal trauma or impact due to various reasons, these factors may trigger premature birth.