Condition
Premature Infant
Key Points About Prematurity
- Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are considered premature or born too early.
- Many premature babies also weigh less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces (2,500 grams). They may be called low birth weight.
- Premature babies can have long-term health problems. In general, the more premature the baby, the more serious and long-lasting the health problems may be.
- Prenatal care is a key factor in preventing preterm births and low-birth-weight babies.
- Premature babies are at increased risk for SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Frequently Asked Questions
Prevention and Risk Assessment
What causes prematurity?
What is prematurity?
Who is at risk for prematurity?
Can prematurity be prevented?
Diagnosis
What are the symptoms of prematurity?
How is prematurity diagnosed?
Treatments
How is prematurity treated?
What are possible complications of prematurity?
How is prematurity managed?
Meet the Providers Who Treat Premature Infants
Patient Stories
- Helping Ryan Grow Up Stronger
Ryan was born early with a devastating gastrointestinal condition. Expert care from Children's National Hospital has put him on the path to a bright future.
- Payton's Story
Payton was born prematurely with intestinal, heart and lung issues. She was rushed to our hospital. Surgeries and treatments, along with care and compassion from providers like Tara Floyd, director of neonatal intensive care nursing made a difference. "Without Children's National, I would not have the energetic, feisty, resilient and strong girl that Payton is today," her mom says.
- A Community of Care
Ny"Chelle was born a tiny preemie and faced many health risks. Thanks to care at Children's National Hospital, today she loves to run and laugh and chase her big brothers.
Departments that Treat Premature Infant

Neonatology
Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.

Critical Care Medicine
With the only pediatric, cardiac and neuro-intensive care units in the immediate Washington, D.C., area, Children's National Hospital is the region's leading provider of critical care medicine for seriously ill and injured infants and children. Learn more about our Critical Care Medicine Program.