Delayed prenatal care is associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, as are other risk factors for preterm birth like advanced maternal age, smoking, obesity, birth spacing, substance use, and social determinants of health. With the prevalence of substance use disorders in New Hampshire, a portion of these premature births may be related to opiate or other substance use. Giving moms and babies access to affordable health care and home visiting programs may help lower preterm birth rates.
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