When faced with the prospect of delivering a baby prematurely, many parents have questions regarding fetal viability. This term refers to the stage of development at which a fetus is capable of surviving outside the womb.
What is Fetal Viability?
In biological terms, viability is defined as the ability of a fetus to survive independently. A fetus is deemed viable when it has reached a certain gestational age that enables it to sustain life outside the mother’s body. Typically, this is around 24 weeks of gestation, although factors like fetal weight and sex can influence outcomes.
Key Factors Influencing Viability:
- Gestational Age: The longer a fetus remains in the womb, the better its chances of survival.
- Fetal Weight: Generally, babies born weighing at least 600 grams (approximately 1.3 pounds) have a higher likelihood of viability.
- Fetal Sex and Plurality: Some studies indicate that female infants may have a better survival rate when born prematurely compared to their male counterparts.
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In summary, fetal viability is a crucial aspect to consider when dealing with the possibility of premature birth. Understanding gestational age and other factors can provide better insight into what to expect.