How long will it take for a premature baby to develop like a full-term infant?
Nov 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, if a premature infant is in good health after birth, they may reach the same developmental level as a full-term child within about a year. However, if the premature infant has medical complications, it may take two to three years or even longer to reach the same level as a full-term child. During a period after birth, preterm infants often experience catch-up growth, with physical development indicators such as weight, height, and head circumference gradually approaching, and sometimes even surpassing, those of full-term infants of the same age.
Generally, if a premature infant is in good health after birth, they may reach the same developmental level as full-term infants within about a year. However, if the premature infant has medical conditions, it may take two to three years or even longer to achieve similar development. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Premature infants refer to newborns with a gestational age of less than 37 weeks. As these infants are born early, their growth and development may lag somewhat compared to full-term infants. During the period following birth, premature infants often experience catch-up growth, during which physical developmental indicators such as weight, height, and head circumference gradually approach or even surpass those of full-term infants of the same age. Most premature infants who are in good health and without major illnesses can reach the normal developmental level of full-term infants within one year.
However, if a premature infant has medical conditions such as congenital heart disease, respiratory distress syndrome, or necrotizing enterocolitis, these conditions may impact the infant's health and prolong the recovery period, which may require two to three years or longer. For example, some premature infants may still exhibit developmental delays in the nervous system, requiring extended observation and intervention.
Parents are advised to monitor and assess the infant's actual condition and provide an appropriate environment for care and feeding.
