World Prematurity Day 2025: Giving each child the most effective begin

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness joins the worldwide neighborhood in marking World Prematurity Day, a time to have a good time the braveness of infants born too quickly, and the households and well being staff who take care of them. Premature beginning impacts about one in 9 infants in South Africa and stays one of many main causes of new child deaths. With early detection, expert care, and household help, most preterm infants can survive and thrive.

Supporting infants and households to Start Well

“Every baby deserves the best start in life,” says Prof. Gugu Kali, Head of the Neonatology Unit at Tygerberg Hospital. “We encourage all expectant mothers to book their first antenatal visit as soon as they know they are pregnant and to keep attending every check-up. Early and regular care allows healthcare teams to monitor both mother and baby, identify risks early, and act quickly, giving little ones the best chance to grow strong and healthy.” 

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness continues to strengthen maternal and neonatal care by way of its Start Well strategy. This contains antenatal providers at clinics, expert midwives at birthing amenities, and neighborhood well being staff who present follow-up visits and steering at dwelling. Together, these providers assist moms and infants start their journey within the healthiest means potential.

Stories of hope and resilience

Nobongikhaya Sithilanga, mom of Elishama, born at 26 weeks and weighing simply 600 g, shared:

“I was traumatised when I had such a small, premature baby, but over time I learnt to enjoy him and care for him. Visiting him every day, learning to express milk, and practising kangaroo mother care taught me patience and love. I am so happy my baby is going home. I am thankful to the doctors, staff, and God for this journey.” 

Shanice Heynes, mom of Ayaan, born at 26 weeks and weighing 720 g, stated:

“The early days were filled with both fear and faith. Watching my baby surrounded by machines taught me courage and hope. The medical team’s dedication and compassion gave my baby the chance to come home and thrive. They are true heroes.” 

Across the province, numerous hospitals and clinics are internet hosting instructional classes, father or mother help teams, and purple-themed consciousness actions to honour households and lift consciousness about preterm beginning.

How expectant moms will help defend their infants

• Start care early: Visit a healthcare facility as quickly as you recognize or suspect you’re pregnant.
• Attend all antenatal visits: Regular check-ups monitor each the mom’s and child’s well being.
• Follow medical steering: Eat nicely, relaxation, and take prescribed dietary supplements.
• Seek help: Reach out to neighborhood well being staff or native clinics when you have got questions or issues. 

“With the right care and support, preterm babies can grow up healthy and strong,” provides Prof. Kali. “World Prematurity Day reminds us that small infants will be fighters, and no household has to face the journey alone.” 

When infants begin nicely, households reside nicely, and communities age nicely — all inside a well being system that continues to run nicely for each technology.