Will being premature affect baby’s milestones?

Question

My daughter was 6 weeks early but she’s going on 2 months and I can’t get her to smile at all. 
Will her being premature affect how soon she does things?

Answer

I have a friend who has two premature babies- the oldest one just turned a year. They both are behind on milestones. They’re doctors said to take whatever their due date was and use that as a point of reference. For example, if the baby was six weeks early, then as six weeks old she would be acting like a newborn. 
However! Each case is different depending on baby and I would call your doctor just to see what they think.

Answer

Look for milestones based on baby’s due date, not their actual age.  They aren’t late or behind unless they’re behind on their adjusted age

Answer

Yes. As the others have said, you should take into account her due date. Since she’s 6 weeks early, you adjust her age accordingly - she should be meeting newborn milestones at 6 weeks old etc.

Answer

My daughters were 5 weeks early, and their pediatrician told me that I need to consider their adjusted age with milestones and not worry if they seem to be a month behind. For example, they are almost 8 months and are just now almost sitting up unassisted, and he said that is fine!

Answer

My baby was born 5 weeks and 5 days early, he’s only been born for a week and 3 days. He’s still learning it takes time for babies to adjust and learn how to be outside the womb

Answer

Potentially. Each baby is different. My son was only 4 weeks early and was behind on my many physical milestones. Unsure how much was due to prematurity though. He did catch up on everything so I wouldn’t worry too much.

Will being premature affect baby’s milestones?

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