Misconceptions and Facts About Premature Birth: The “Seventh-Month Baby” Myth

Many new mothers and families believe that babies born in the seventh month of pregnancy have a better chance of survival than those born in the eighth month. This belief, sometimes referred to as the “seventh-month baby” myth, is often passed down by grandmothers and older generations. However, modern medical science has proven that this is a misconception without any scientific basis.

In reality, the development and growth of the fetus in the seventh month differ significantly from those in the eighth month. Every extra day the baby spends in the womb increases its chances of survival.

Dr. Bahaa Eldin Moussa, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, explains why babies born in the eighth month generally have better survival rates than those born in the seventh month, based on fetal development stages.

Fetal Development in the Seventh Month

• The baby can hear and recognize the mother’s voice.

• The baby has developed brain tissue and is capable of sleep and wake cycles.

• The baby begins to grow hair and suck its thumb.

• The immune system, liver, and lungs are nearly fully developed.

• The baby’s brain and head begin positioning downward for birth.

• The baby gains about 1 pound in this month, reaching roughly 40 cm in length and 1.4 kg in weight.

• Fat cells start forming under the skin for insulation.

• Facial features like eyelashes develop, though the baby cannot blink yet.

• For boys, the reproductive organs mature; for girls, ovaries begin to form follicles.

Fetal Development in the Eighth Month

• The baby gains more weight, around 2.5 kg, nearing the average birth weight of about 3 kg.

• The lungs are fully developed and capable of breathing outside the womb.

• Survival rates for babies born in the eighth month approach 99%.

• Babies born this early may need care in an incubator but generally have a strong chance of survival.

• Mothers may receive corticosteroid injections ("lung shots") before early delivery to help the baby’s lungs mature faster.

Causes and Risks of Early Labor in the Seventh or Eighth Month

• High blood pressure during pregnancy increases the risk of premature labor.

• Placental problems such as placental abruption or placenta previa can cause early delivery.

• Urinary tract infections are common triggers of early labor symptoms.

• Premature rupture of membranes (early water breaking) may necessitate an early delivery to save the baby.

Signs of Possible Preterm Labor

• Intermittent cramping resembling menstrual pain.

• Persistent abdominal heaviness.

• If these symptoms appear, pregnant women should immediately consult their doctor for ultrasound and cervical checks.

• Doctors may prescribe medications or treatments to delay labor and improve fetal lung maturity.

Tips to Prevent Premature Birth

• Monitor urinary symptoms and get prompt treatment for infections.

• Maintain regular prenatal visits, especially in the last two months.

• Be aware of warning signs such as spotting or abdominal pain.

• Around the 18th week of pregnancy, the doctor may check the length of the cervix to assess the risk of early labor.

This information highlights the importance of proper prenatal care and debunks myths about premature birth survival based on the month of birth. The eighth month provides better fetal development and survival chances compared to the seventh month.