Why are preterm newborns at increased risk for complications during birth?

Preterm newborns are at increased risk for complications during birth primarily due to their immature organ systems, particularly the brain. The developing brain of a preterm infant is not fully mature, making it vulnerable to various forms of brain injuries, such as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). This type of bleeding can occur due to fragile blood vessels in the immature brain that can break easily during the stresses of birth or shortly thereafter. The risk of these complications underscores the importance of careful monitoring and support for preterm infants immediately after delivery, as their neurological development is still in progress and lacks the protective features seen in more mature infants.

While preterm newborns may also have underdeveloped skeletal systems, have lower birth weights, and increased oxygen demands, these factors do not pose the same acute risk during the birth process as neurological immaturity does. The immediate concern in preterm infants lies predominantly in their brain health, as complications stemming from neurological issues can have long-lasting impacts on their overall development and health.