Do all premature babies experience developmental delays?

If a preterm infant is born near full term, is otherwise healthy, and receives early intervention treatments, their development generally does not experience delays. However, if the infant is born at a very early gestational age, has extremely low birth weight, or develops complications associated with prematurity, developmental delays may occur.

1. No delay

Some preterm infants are born close to full term and may grow and develop similarly to full-term newborns, typically without significant delays. Additionally, if a preterm infant is in good health at birth, without severe complications, and receives effective early intervention and rehabilitation after birth, the risk of developmental delay is reduced.

2. Delay possible

If a newborn has very low birth weight, is born at an extremely early gestational age, or does not receive timely and effective intervention and rehabilitation, complications such as infections, hemorrhage, or respiratory distress syndrome may arise, potentially affecting the infant's growth and development.

Preterm infants should be fed according to medical advice and require careful nursing care. If any symptoms of discomfort or serious complications occur, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are necessary to support normal development of all organ systems.