What are the Risk Factors for Neonatal Infections?
Several factors increase the risk of neonatal infections: - Premature birth: Premature infants have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. - Low birth weight: Babies with low birth weight often have compromised immune systems. - Prolonged rupture of membranes: This increases the risk of bacterial infection ascending from the vagina to the amniotic fluid and the baby. - Chorioamnionitis: An infection of the placenta and amniotic fluid. - Maternal infections: Conditions such as maternal fever or urinary tract infections during pregnancy can increase the risk.
