perinatal mortality

medicine

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Perinatal mortality refers to the death of a baby around the time of birth. This includes stillbirths and deaths occurring within the first 28 days of life. High infant mortality rates, which are closely linked to perinatal issues, often indicate unmet needs in sanitation, medical care, nutrition, and education within a community.12

Several factors can contribute to a high-risk pregnancy, increasing the likelihood of adverse outcomes for both mother and infant. These include maternal age, nutrition, pre-existing health conditions, and lifestyle choices like smoking or substance abuse. Preterm labor is a significant cause of perinatal illness and death.3

While research suggests that postmature infants may face higher risks for behavioral problems, timely and appropriate prenatal care is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes for mother and child.43

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infant and toddler health
Infant mortality
Perinatal (within the first month of life) mortality rates have also declined, due to improvements in medical knowledge and technology and increased attention paid to prenatal care and infant health. In addition, the incidences of low-birth-weight newborns and short-gestational births have dropped in some countries,…
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Perinatal (within the first month of life) mortality rates have also declined, due to improvements in medical knowledge and technology and increased attention paid to prenatal care and infant health. In addition, the incidences of low-birth-weight newborns and short-gestational births have dropped in some countries,…
Read More

birth
Breech presentation
Because very small premature infants are particularly susceptible to the dangers of breech delivery, the mortality among them is very high when they are born breech first.
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Because very small premature infants are particularly susceptible to the dangers of breech delivery, the mortality among them is very high when they are born breech first.
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