Preterm Birth Prevention Support

Part of Maternal & Newborn Health

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Preterm birth defined as delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy remains a leading cause of newborn illness and death globally and in Uganda. It can occur suddenly even in pregnancies that previously appeared healthy.

While not all preterm births can be prevented many risk factors can be reduced through early identification education and continuous support. Prevention requires informed families responsive health systems and strong community networks.

Preterm Infants Parents Network Uganda PIPNU works alongside parents health workers and communities to reduce preventable preterm births and improve maternal and newborn outcomes.

Understanding Preterm Birth

Preterm birth interrupts critical stages of fetal growth increasing the risk of breathing difficulties infections feeding challenges and long term developmental complications. The earlier a baby is born the higher the risk.

For mothers preterm birth is often linked to infections chronic medical conditions high stress levels and delayed access to quality prenatal care. Addressing these risks early is essential.

Our Key Areas of Prevention Support

1. Prenatal Education and Awareness

We equip families with practical information that supports early action. Our work focuses on:

  • Promoting early and regular prenatal care
  • Educating mothers and families about modifiable risk factors including nutrition infections substance use and stress
  • Supporting early recognition of preterm labor signs such as regular contractions pelvic pressure lower back pain and changes in vaginal discharge

Early knowledge leads to early care seeking.

2. Lifestyle and Nutritional Support

Healthy pregnancies are supported by everyday choices and accessible guidance. PIPNU provides:

  • Nutrition education adapted to locally available foods rich in essential nutrients
  • Guidance on healthy weight management before and during pregnancy
  • Stress reduction support through peer groups counseling and community engagement

These interventions are designed to be realistic and culturally appropriate.

3. Medical Screening and Referral Support

For families at higher risk early screening and referral are critical. We support:

  • Identification of mothers who may benefit from cervical length screening
  • Referral for progesterone therapy where clinically indicated
  • Screening and timely treatment of infections associated with preterm labor

PIPNU works in collaboration with healthcare providers and does not replace clinical care.

4. Support for Mothers With Chronic Conditions

Managing chronic health conditions reduces preventable complications. Our approach includes:

  • Encouraging early diagnosis and consistent management of conditions such as hypertension diabetes anemia and thyroid disorders
  • Supporting medication adherence and safe treatment practices through education and follow up

5. Psychosocial and Community Based Support

Emotional and social support play a critical role in pregnancy outcomes. We strengthen families through:

  • Parent support groups led by trained peer mentors with lived experience of preterm birth
  • Home based education and follow up through community health workers and Village Kangaroo Ambassadors
  • Partner and family engagement to promote shared responsibility for maternal health

Community support improves trust continuity of care and early referral.

6. Digital Health Support

Technology helps bridge gaps in access to care. Through digital tools such as CommCare Connect we support mothers to:

  • Track appointments symptoms and basic health indicators
  • Receive reminders and alerts for danger signs
  • Access remote guidance when in person care is delayed

Digital tools complement existing health services and strengthen follow up.

PIPNU's Family Led Approach (HOSPITAL)

PIPNU uses a Family Led Model that integrates health facilities community outreach and digital tools to provide continuous support from pregnancy through delivery.

Our programs are informed by parent mentors many of whom have experienced preterm birth themselves. This lived experience strengthens trust reduces stigma and bridges the gap between clinical advice and daily realities.

Call to Action

Preventing preterm birth requires shared responsibility.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy:

  • Attend prenatal care early and consistently
  • Discuss risk factors openly with a healthcare provider
  • Seek care immediately when warning signs appear
  • Engage with community and family support programs

Together we can reduce preventable preterm births and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider.