Preterm Births Surge Among Indian Couples in US Amid Citizenship Concerns

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

An increasing number of Indian couples are seeking preterm deliveries through C-sections in the United States, driven by anxieties surrounding a recent policy change that could potentially affect the citizenship status of children born on US soil.

The move stems from concerns about a proclamation that sought to restrict birthright citizenship, a constitutional right enshrined in the 14th Amendment. While the proclamation ultimately faced legal challenges, it has created a sense of urgency among expectant Indian mothers, with some in their late stages of pregnancy requesting early C-sections.

Furthermore, reports indicate a rise in inquiries from women in their second or early third trimester exploring the possibility of premature deliveries.

However, medical professionals strongly advise against this trend, emphasizing the significant health risks associated with preterm births for both mother and child.

Preterm Birth Risks:

A preterm birth is defined as a birth occurring before 37 weeks of gestation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), complications arising from preterm birth are the leading cause of death among children under five years of age.

Dr. Sandhya Rani, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield, Bengaluru, underscores the ethical and medical concerns surrounding this trend. "Doctors receiving requests for preterm surgery should firmly discourage such actions," she states. "Premature births carry substantial risks for both the mother and the child, potentially leading to lifelong health complications."

Dr. Rani explains that inducing labor for a preterm birth can be challenging and may not be effective due to the body's unpreparedness. C-sections performed prematurely also increase risks for both mother and child, often requiring larger incisions.