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An incompetent cervix is a weak cervix that widens during pregnancy under the pressure of the fetus. May cause premature birth or even a miscarriage. The cervix is the narrow, outer end of the uterus. If it is weak, it cannot hold the fetus in the uterus. To prevent it sometimes a cerclage is needed. Whatever the reason for premature delivery, babies who are born too soon now have a vast array of medical care awaiting them upon arrival. The earlier the baby is born - and today, 24-25 weeks is as early as it's possible to be born and have any chance of survival - the more hospital care your baby will need. Most premature babies suffer from breathing problems, due to the immaturity of their lungs at birth. If a doctor suspects a baby will be born prematurely, often she will be administered a corticosteroid medication to help speed up lung development and prevent bleeding into the baby's brain after birth. My first born was born at 28 weeks and was only 2lbs 2 oz. She was on an apnea monitor when she came home after being in the NICU for 2 months. Doctors do not know why she came early.