- Researchers are working to identify the causes of premature
birth. - In progress: new treatments to prevent or halt preterm
labor. - Medical breakthroughs improve the care of premature
babies. Yes. Premature babies are at increased risk of newborn
health complications, including breathing and intestinal
problems and bleeding in the brain. They also are at increased
risk of death and lasting disabilities, including intellectual
disabilities, behavioral problems, cerebral palsy and vision and
hearing loss. Three groups of women are at greatest risk. These
include women who have had a previous premature birth, women who
are pregnant with twins or more, and women with certain
abnormalities of the uterus and cervix. Treatment during
pregnancy with the hormone progesterone can help reduce the risk
of another premature birth in some women who have had a previous
premature birth. These women should discuss with their health
care provider whether this treatment is right for them. Late-
preterm birth refers to babies