Prematurity Awareness Month

November 1, 2025 All day

Every November, we pause to talk about something too many families live through quietly, babies born too soon. Prematurity Awareness Month is a time to raise understanding of what it means to start life in the NICU, the challenges that follow, and the strength it takes to get through it.

This month exists because prematurity is still a leading cause of newborn illness and death around the world. Behind every statistic is a family learning to navigate alarms, feeding tubes, and long nights of uncertainty. It’s also a story of skill; the nurses, respiratory therapists, and providers who work every shift to help these smallest patients grow stronger.

We observe it in November to honor the global work led by health organizations and communities focused on preterm birth prevention and care. It’s a chance to share what’s been learned, where care still falls short, and how we can do better, from prenatal education and early intervention to family-centered NICU support.

Even if you haven’t lived it personally, this month is an invitation to learn, support, and speak up for preterm infants and their families. Real awareness starts with understanding that prematurity isn’t rare, and that small voices need big advocacy.