Full-term babies are born 38 to 42 weeks after they are conceived. Age in premature babies is often defined in gestational weeks (the number of weeks after the baby was conceived) until the baby is 40 weeks old.  If a baby is born at 30 weeks that would mean the baby is 10 weeks premature.  

There are many causes of prematurity and often there may be no warning that your baby could be premature.  Premature babies are usually born via C-section, in most cases an emergency.  The NICU is on alert, the pediatrician will be standing by to take immediate care of the needs of the premature baby.   

Premature babies need special care in the NICU.  Depending on the gestational age of the baby, preemies can be classified into the following categories:

	Micro Preemies - less than 26 weeks gestational age
	Very-very premature babies - 26 - 29 weeks gestational age
	Very premature babies - 30 - 34 weeks gestational age
	Moderately premature babies - 35 - 37 weeks gestational age

Due to many advances in medical and science, more than 90% of babies born weighing 800 grams and more will survive. Babies weighing under 800 grams will have less chance of survival with many more complications.  Micro preemies face the biggest challenge of survival.

Simonè 25 days old

The preemies basic needs are warmth, nutrition, and protection for proper growth and development.  The NICU is designed to meet the premature babies needs.

Read more about the following:

The causes of prematurity 

About Preemies, what they look like, what care they need...

All about Micro Preemies 

The chances for your premature baby's survival