Many studies and extensive research have shown that even a few extra days in the uterus can significantly increase the chance of survival for a preterm baby, especially at an extremely early gestational age such as 24-26 weeks.
As evidenced in this news story, Elene Cowan, a 30 year old mother expecting twin boys (Carl and David) went into preterm labor four months early at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The amniotic sac of Carl was entering the birth canal, and her cervix was starting to dilate which resulted in her having contractions. Her OB-GYN revealed that Cowen was experiencing a condition where weak cervical tissue can cause premature birth. He decided to deliver Carl at 1.4 lbs, but then stitched her cervix closed and provided antibiotics and medication to delay labor and delivery of her second twin, David.
After 39 days of Cowen being on bedrest, labor began again and she finally delivered David. He weighed 2.9 lbs which was more than twice his brother’s birth weight and he had a much better chance of survival. Both boys stayed in the NICU for a few weeks and finally went home about a week after their due date of May 11. Doctors told Cowan the fraternal twins, will be “perfectly healthy normal little boys,” though Carl remains on oxygen.
Read on for more details: www.today.com/health/miracles-happen-preemie-twins-born-39-days-apart-1D79812418.
