Version July 2025
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What is intraventricular hemorrhage in newborns? —
Intraventricular hemorrhage, or "IVH," is a condition that happens when blood vessels inside a newborn baby's brain bleed.
IVH is most common in newborns who:
●Are born more than 8 weeks early – This is called "preterm" or "premature" birth. A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, so babies born at 32 weeks or fewer are more likely to have this problem.
●Newborns who weigh about 3 pounds or less – This is called "very low birth weight." It is less than half the weight of an average newborn.
Babies who are born very premature need to stay in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit, or "NICU." This is so doctors and nurses can watch them closely and take care of them.
What are the symptoms of IVH in newborns? —
Some newborns have no symptoms. A baby that has symptoms might:
●Be more sleepy or less alert than usual
●Have weak, floppy muscles
●Move less than normal
●Stop breathing for short periods of time
Is there a test for IVH in newborns? —
Yes. Doctors can test for IVH using an ultrasound of the baby's head. This test uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasounds are usually done on all babies who are born more than 8 weeks early.
How is IVH in newborns treated? —
There are no treatments to stop the bleeding. But the doctor will check to make sure your baby's blood flow and oxygen levels are normal. This can prevent further bleeding.
Your baby might need fluids given through a thin tube that goes into a vein, called an "IV." They might also need oxygen, which can be given through:
●2 plastic tubes put in the baby's nostrils – This is called a "nasal cannula."
●A mask over the baby's mouth and nose – This is a treatment called "continuous positive airway pressure," or "CPAP."
●A breathing tube – This is a tube that goes down the throat and into the lungs. The other end is attached to a ventilator (breathing machine).
Some babies with IVH have no long-term effects. Others have problems with their development. Babies with a lot of bleeding in the brain are more likely to have problems.
Can IVH in newborns be prevented? —
There is no way to completely prevent IVH. But since it is more common in babies who are born too early, efforts to prevent early birth might lower the chances of it happening.
There are no known ways to prevent early birth for certain. But the best advice is to go to all your doctor or midwife appointments when you are pregnant and follow their guidance.
Patient education: When a baby is born premature (The Basics)
Patient education: What to expect in the NICU (The Basics)
